
Qass. 
Book 



"sB 



/ 



/ 



A 

SKETCH 



OP THE 



mm^^(Bmw 



op 



SUPPOSED TO HAVE BEEN WRITTEN BY 
TJEIZE, 

While ttt Pnson, aided in the obtaining of Documents, 

BY HIS BROTHERS 

NEMO AnD ATJOinT; 

AUTHORS 

OF A RESIDENCE IN THE SOUTH; AND, A TOUR 
THROUGH THE WEST. 



KIAT JUSTITIA RUAT CCKLUM. 



BOSTON ; 

ritlNTED FOR THE PUDLISnER. 
7/ . 1827. . . , , c^<£^~7x.<r^ 






w 



F7^ 



To the Reverend JAMES FREEMAN, D. D. Secretary 
of the Massachusetts Historical Society — the following Sketch. 

without permission, is inscribed, 

Very humbly and respectfully, by the 

PUBLISHER. 



' /If 



INTRODUCTION. . 

The following sheets were accidentally discovered, buried iu 
a heap of rubbish, in the corner of a cell; for several months pre- 
viously occupied by an unfortunate debtor, who had there ended 
his days. They were, therefore, very naturally considered, the 
work of his pen; intended to alleviate the irksomeness of con- 
finement, by employment, and the consequent amusement. 

In the progress of what lie terms his sketch, we perceive con- 
siderable inequality in the style. To use his favorite figure^ 
alliteration, probably proceeding from frequent depression of 
spin'ts occasioned by the declining state of his health. 

Respecting alliteration, as an apology for the deceased, the 
authority of some of our best poets, both ancient and modern, 
might be adduced. — But lot Prior's " smooth surface of a sum- 
mer's sea," suffice. 

This figure is, in prose, what rhyme is in poetry. Our sub- 
limest writers have only occasionally used it. 

This, like the Hyblean honey, is exceedingly sweet; but must 
be used with moderation, otherwise it not only cloys, but in the 
end nauseates. 

Respecting his Johnsonian pollysyllabical verbiage, we enter- 
tain not the same indulgence. Thofrog, that would be an Ox 
must be a fool. The sweetest fruit is least shaded with leaves. 

Somewhat of quaintness is occasionally discovered, both in 
turn of thought and expression. 

One thing we rejoice in being able to mention with unqualified 
praise; his constant reference to the wisdom and goodness of 
Divine Providence. 

Ilis introduction, though apparently not connected with the 
following subject, we think as much so, as tho feudal system with 
Robertson's life of Charles V. or the history of the settlement 
of the North American States with the life of Washington. 

Religion should be blended with all our actions, feelings and 
thoughts. 



iv INTRODUCTION. 

His observations, on the causes and manner, in which large 
Empires and States are discovered, and smaller communities 
formed, he undoubtedly intended only as connecting links down 
to the first inconsiderable corporation, whose progress and pros- 
perity he wished to describe. 

His Botanical remarks are too dry to be generally interesting. 
They are, however, free from technical phraseology, and of course 
from pedantry. Though he occasionally lets slip some term just 
to remind us of his being scientifically acquainted with his sub- 
ject. 

His insects and reptiles are amusing. The spider and toad, 
seem his favorites. If present, he would probably plead privilege 
of defending the weak and persecuted, and encourage the in- 
genius and enterprising. 

His Geological observations, if correct, must be valuable. 

That portion which he names Ecclesiastical, appears to us the 
most interesting, and every way the most important. The 
(Ilergy of New England are too respectable a body to be indis- 
criminately attacked. A real embassador from the Court of 
Heaven, should be received, with the respect, due to his Master. 
An impostor ought to he denounced, and excommunicated, and 
eflfectually prevented from meddling with a subject with which 
he is totally unacquainted. Where there is a true coin there is 
generally a counterfeit. 

Towards Lawyers, he appears not to extend a very large por- 
tion of charity. He probably either was, or imagined himself, to 
have been cruelly treated by them. 

Physicians too, of the old school, he treats rather cavalierly; 
calling them old women, whether petticoated or pantalooned. 
He probably had forgotten that his mother was an old woman. 

The work, however, with all its imperfections, is now submit- 
ted to the mercy of a candid and indulgent pubhc, 
By their very humble servant, 

THE PUBLISHER. 



HISTORY OF FRAMINGIIAM. 



In the bepnning, sajs the Mosaic account, of tiie formation of this world, 
God created the heavens and the earth. We will, previous to proceeding 
to our main subject, suggest a few queries, for tlie reader's reflection. 
1. What must we reasonably understand by beginning ? Surely not the first 
time, when the Almighty Father of the Universe formed worlds, and arrang- 
ed systems. Such an idea would be infinitely derogatory to his divine char* 
acter. For if we should take a row of figures of the smallest possible di- 
mension, that would reach from this earth to the most distant fixed star, 
and suppose the aforesaid series to express years, yea ages, this would carry 
us no nearer the beginning of eternity, than a cypher. 2. Can we even for a 
moment entertain the thought of a Being, infinitely wise, intelligent and ac- 
tile, remaining eternally inactive, making not the least display of his most 
important attributes, wisdom, power and goodness, wrapped up within him- 
self, like a worm in a chrysalis state? Now this inevitably follows the suppo- 
sition of his works ever having had a beginning. The word beginning, must 
therefore relate merely to the formation of the earth, at most th^t of the 
solar system. Every thing relative to the Deity, must necessarily be infi- 
nite ; infinite in duration, having neither beginning nor end, infinite in extent, 
without bounds, infinite in variety as regards power, form, situation, &c. 
The moment God is conceived to exist, at the same instant, all his attributes 
are in action. As we cannot fix a time, when He did not exist, so we can- 
not find a time when his works did not exist. We may properly term him 
the infinite cause of infinite effect. To this cavillers will oI)ject, by saying, a 
cause must necessarily be antecedent to an effect. But this is merely a dis- 
pute about terms, ^^'e will therefore change the term for the eternal efl!lu- 
ence of God, necessary from the nature of his attributes. Taking up our 
infinite series then — On the throne of God, we find seated, in majesty un- 
speakable and inconceivable, our Blessed Savior, clothed, or rather inspired 
with the attributes of Deity ; and so far, as possible, to accommodate our 
feeble, and every way imperfect understandings, styled the Son of God, 
first born, only begotten, though without the most distant analogy to the 
manner of continuing and preserving the human race. Imagination may 
range, though reason can never follow ; from this Being, infinite by delega- 
tion ; (for Jesus says, all power is committed into his hands,) down through 
animated matter, as far below the mite, as the mite is less than the Uni- 
verse, [a] 

In contemplating the foregoing subject, we are lost, confused, amazed and 
confounded. To finite reason it is not only unintelligible, but inscrutable. 



We will therefore call home our thoughts and confine them to our owir 
sphere, this little earth ; where we may discover sufficient for wonder and 
adoration, of our great all-wise Maker, [b] 

Our all-kind and intelligent Maker, whether this were the Father, or a? 
more generallj believed, the Son, having provided a residence for his ration- 
al offspring, formed him in his own likeness, and animated him with a spark 
of Divinity ; when he breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and made 
him a living soul. All matter was animated for the accommodation and 
subserviency of his wants. He was commanded to multiply and people the 
earth. This command he cheerfully obeyed. But with the increase of num- 
bers, was also a greater increase of wickedness. God therefore in his wis- 
dom, always tempered with mercy, found it necessary to wash away the 
sins of the old world, by a flood. After the subsidence of the waters, Noah 
received the same injunction that was given to Adam, multiply and re- 
plenish the earth. Yet although rapidly multiplied, they emigrated not to 
distant parts. For, notwithstanding the solemn promise of their Almighty 
Father, they seemed actuated by the fear of another deluge. The project 
of building a large city, with an immensely lofty tower in the centre, 
would subserve two purposes. This tower, rising toward the heavens, high 
as human art, industry and perseverence could carry it, would be a land- 
mark, to guide the distant wanderer, who otherwise might be lost, and be- 
wildered, back to his home. It would also be a refuge and asylum, should 
the earth again be flooded. The carrying their design completely into effect, 
would have counteracted the designs of Divine Providence, by checking 
the progress of population. For if we may credit statistical writers on the 
subject, none of the great cities of Europe, London, Paris, &c. are support- 
ed, in population, by their own natural increase ; the number of deaths in 
them being annually much greater, than of births. Our five great American 
cities are probably under the same predicament. An influx from the neigh- 
boring country is necessary to prevent a decrease of the number of inhabit- 
ants. It was necessary they should be " scattered over the face of the 
whole earth." Empires and kingdoms arose. As these increased in power, 
and were extended, smaller states or governments sprang from them, owing 
either to ambition or dissentions, frequently both. Thus too in modern 
days, kingdoms are divided, distant provinces renounce their allegiance to 
the parent state, form a new community, and undertake their own govern- 
ment. The same principle prevails in the subdivision of states from a coun- 
ty, down to the most inconsiderable township or even parish. Ambitious 
spirits, who have no voice in the superintendence and control of public af- 
fairs, excite discontent, distrust, dissention and in the end disunion. They 
are thus enabled to obtain office and wield the sceptre of power. 

In this manner teas originated the inconsiderable township, a sketch of 
whose liistory we will attempt, for the benefit of some future, methodical 
digester, and arranger of facts. 

This town is situated about twenty miles west of a large eastern metropo- 
lis, celebrated for its notions, political, religious and commercial. This 



township was originally attached to the town south-easterl/ adjacent, by the 
name of Sherborn. A copy of the grant from public records runs thus : 

"Framingliam township grant, 1700. At a Great and General Court or 
Assembly, for his Majesty's Province of the Massachusetts Bay, in New- 
England, begun and held at Boston, on Wednesday, 29th May, 1700, in the 
twelfth year of his Majesty's reign, being convened by his Majesty's writ, 
upon a full hearing of the matter in difference between (iie town of Sher- 
born, and the inhabitants of the plantation of Kramingham, containing all 

that tract of land formerly granted to Tliomas D th, Esq. next adjoining 

to Sherborn, upon the north and northerly. 

Ordered that said plantation called Framingham, be from henceforth a 
township, retaining the name of Framingham, and have and enjoy all the 
privileges of a town according to law. 

Saving unto Sherborn all the rights of land granted by the General Court 
to the first inhabitants, and those since i)urchased by exchange with the 
Indians of Natick, or otherwise, all the farms lying within the said township, 
according to former grants of this General Court. 

1 ■ — c Adington, SccVy." 

On the same day this grant was made by the legislature, a petition by 
mutual concert, was made by a large tract of land N. E. of the aforesaid 
Plantation, termed Sudbury Farms, to be annexed to tiie new township, 
which was readily granted. The new town thus became larger, and subse- 
(juently more respectable than either of its progenitors. 

We will now offer a few observations on the natural histor}', and local ad- 
vantages of tliis new township. In length, its extent from N. E. to S. W. is 
about seven miles, and its greatest breadth somewhat exceeding five. The 
surface can be denominated neither hilly nor plain. Nature when she ope- 
rated here, must have indulged a very peaceful, placid mood. She undula- 
ted gently from one little eminence to another, without rising into rocky 
iiummits, or sinking into impassable morasses. Every acre is susceptible of 
cultivation. Even the most rugged hills from the bottom of the declivities, 
to their very tops, yield excellent pasturage. The lowest and wettest 
grounds may also easily be reclaimed, and rendered exceedingly' fertile, by 
liie art and industry of man. The sub-soil is generally gravel, in a few in- 
stances sand, and a ttill fewer, clay. In the hilly parts, digging for water, 
you come to a bed of granite, at from ten to twenty feet deep, in proportion 
as you recede from the top of the hill. The thickness of this rock is not 
known ; if not having been found necessary to excavate many feet, before 
a plentiful supply of water gushes out. The soil on the higli arahle land, is 
gravelly, and generally arid, so much so, as in some instances to approach 
the sterile. Here the farmer has an opportunity of exhibiting his scientific 
acquirements, and practical skill in agriculture. Unmixed barn and stable 
manure, ii in this toil nearly useless. Its strength or virtue is, on a hot sur- 
face, operated on by a burning sun, thrown by evaporation into the atmos- 
jherc, and scattered among the four winds of the heavens. It is ncccssarj' 
! "> mil the manure with a large proportion of vegetable mould or loam, term- 



8 

ed by modern cultivators, compost. Fields, annually dressed with this, are, 
in a moderate series of years, covered with a superstratum of fertile earth 
and productive from their own resources, and no longer dependent on art 
for their fertility. On such land, this treatment is absolutely necessary to 
insure tolerable crops of grass. 

The favorite grains, raised in this place, are rye and Indian corn. The 
first succeeds remarkably well, being better adapted to the soil, than to a 
moister and richer. In rich soils, the strength of the ground is wasted in 
the production of straw, to the injury of the grain. But for corn the richer 
the soil, with a due degree of heat, the better. More than medium crops 
of this, have been often raised, by much manure and great labor, "tio far- 
mer here, wholly dependent on his farm for the necessaries of life, would 
consider his land properly seeded, without a few acres of this favorite 
vegetable. 

On this he leans as his principal staff, for the support of both man and 
beast. It is useful for a variety of culinary purposes ; more especially that 
dish, so savory to northern palates, Hasty-Pudding. This affords not an 
equal flavor and relish, when made of any other farinaceous substance. 
The reason is plain, this contains more saccharine matter, than any other 
grain. It is at the southward, termed flint-corn, and eagerly coveted by the 
distillers of whiskey. Yet, like the potatoe, when cultivated in a southern 
latitude, it invariably degenerates, and in a short period identifies itself in 
nature and habits, with the corn of that part of our country. Possibly ma- 
ny acres now devoted to Indian corn might, more profitably, and with less 
labor, be improved in the production of some other vegetable. But we are 
so accustomed to walk in the paths of our fathers, that we very reluctantly 
undertake new and unbeaten tracks. To insure success, a series of experi- 
ments are necessary to learn the habits of a plant, and consequently give it 
a proper soil and treatment. For want of perseverence in experiments, 
many valuable undertakings terminated in disappointment. 

Among esculent roots, the potatoe stands next in value to Indian corn, 
as a necessary of life. The dryness of the soil, and heat of the sun during 
summer, prevent its yielding crops equal with those, that are protected and 
nurtured by the mists and fogs of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. Yet in 
goodness they are scarcely inferior, to those raised, in any part of the world. 
Most odier roots are left to the charge of horticulture ; being seldom found 
without the pale of the kitchen garden. Carrots having succeeded well in 
Europe, offer an ample field for experiment. The northern turnip, ruta-ba- 
ga, being indigenous to places immediately bordering the polar regions, must 
degenerate, when transported into warm and dry countries. In the cool and 
moist lands of Great Britain and Ireland, it has been profitably cultivated ; 
and here, in some soils, it may succeed. But we have too implicitly, let us 
observe, relied on English authorities for information respecting exotic 
plants ; when frequently the treatment adopted, should be directly contra- 
ry to their directions. Adventurers are thus discouraged, and agricultural 
improvement retarded. Practical farmers, likewise, are induced to believe 



9 

all scientific direction?, sneeriofjly ternnetl book farming ; not only visionary 
and useless, but highly detrimental. We must learn to think for our»elTes, 
judge, reason, and thus by onr own observations, be able to form correct 
conclusions ; and not blindly use the eyes and brains of others. 

Having cursorily mentioned some of the principal plants, which are fostered 
and nurtured by the art, and industry of man; we will now notice a few of 
the natural productions of the ^ourid. Among (he numerous species of oaks 
that flourish at the south, we can enumerate only six, the white, red, yellow, 
black, swamp, and dwarf or shrub oak, apparently a real incumbrance, and 
nuisance ; but by an all-wise Providence undoubtedly designed for some 
valuable purpose. Our oaks being like those in other places we think re- 
quire not a particular description. The white oak, from its superior strength 
and durability, ranks first. This was formerly very plenty ; but its value 
and consequent demand occasions a scarcity. The propagation and 
preservation are objects highly worthy of the patronage of agricultural so- 
cieties. The other oaks are some times used for boards and timber; but 
mostly for fuel. 

Next to the white oak in importance, comes the chesnut. This being 
quite porous and consequently perious, even when sheltered from the 
weather, to damp air, and therefore, while burning, produces such snapping 
forth of large sparks, as are highly dangerous, particularly to females clothed 
in slazy cotton. 

Next in order comes the maple, unless we admit, that species, termed 
accer iac/ienni« in value and variety of uses, to compete for rank with the 
white oak. This in the southern and western states is termed sugar tree, 
here at the north sugar maple, of which there are two species, and several 
varieties. This with us is scarce, and while we have such ready access to 
the West India Islands, its value is not duly appreciated. But in the for- 
ests of Maine under the names of cuWey, and bird's eye maple, it accommo- 
dates the fanciful artist in cabinet icork. with articles that aluays vie with 
and often surpass the finest mahogany. The white maple is also valuable 
with cabinet makers, and a variety of other artisans. This flourishing best in 
moist land occupying large tracts of unembodied or unreclaimed swamp and 
is readily procured. 

The white ash, being a very light and elastic, though fragile wood, has an 
extensive demand. 

The elm, of which there are many species on the continent, though only 
one remaining here, is not valuable for fuel. It afl'orfis li;ht and substan- 
tial hubbs to our pleasure wagons and carriages. But as a tree of ornament 
and shade, it is justly considered the pride of the American forest. 

The birch exhibits two species, each divided into several varieties. Of the 
yellow we have two, and of the white only one. The white species here is 
used only for fuel, though in Maine a variety of this is highly valued by the 
cabinet maker. With us, this tree, domesticated, and properly cultivated, 
would rival the exotic ueejiing wiUow. The boughs are equally pensile 
B 



10 

and the leaves, by the sliL'lite&t breeze excited into a tremulous luotion, like 
those of the aspen, (propulus tremulus.) 

The aspen we take next, not because next in iinportance ; but as asso- 
ciated with tiie birch by its tremulations. Formerly a variety of vessels, 
such as bowls, trays, &c. were made of this. Tin, with the same articles of 
ash, has nearly superseded them. When our mothers emulated our fath- 
ers in stature, and exalted their heels, at the expense of their toes, this tree 
was in high repute. But since woman has descended to her own sphere and 
become contented with the height to which God has raised her, this has be- 
come nearly useless. It would answer, very well for the manufacture of 
children's toys being readily carved into artj' form, and susceptible of a deep 
stain. 

Although wc cannot attend to all our indigenous trees, we must not for- 
get the wild cherry. This tree is every part of it valuable. The wood 
furnishes us with fuel and furniture, equalling in appearance and durability, 
the lighter kinds of mahogany. This is a mild aromatic tonic, and a good 
substitute for most of tiie South American barks. But its fruit is the most 
valuable part, being what botanists term a drupe, about one third of an inch 
in diameter, when produced by a tree in the woods ; but in size, when do- 
mesticated proportionate to the judicious attention, paid to it by cultiva- 
tion. This fruit infused in brandy, and properly diluted, is the most palatable 
cordial this country affords, being mildly astringent, gently tonic, and highly 
nutritive. Having thus cursorily examined some,of the most iniportant of 
our indigenous trees, we will now attend a few moments, to exotics. 

The apple tree is far the most important of these : Should we undertake 
to investigate the diseases to which this is subject, and their remedies, the 
soil best adapted to it ; the course to be adopted in selecting, or rather separ- 
ating the good from the bad fruit, the grinding this, the expressing, lining 
and preserving the liquor, our sentences would swell into a treatise. We 
therefore confine ourselves to two observations. This is a hardy tree read- 
ily accommodating itself to any soil or situation, high or low, wet or dry. 
The fruit is not thus indifferent to localities. Both in strength and flavour, 
it is much affected by these. The judicious cultivation of the apple would 
yield us a liquor in whoksomeness and flavour surpassing any wine hitherto 
imported. 

The peach next demands our attention. This tree is still more uncertain 
in its produce, than the apple. Could we compound with nature for fruit 
once in two years, we should be greatly the gainers, by the arrangement. 
We are situated one degree, at least, north of the latitude, where this spon- 
taneously flourishes. The treatment here, and there, should be very differ- 
ent. There a southern exposure will produce earlier fruit ; hut here the 
bud prematurely swelling, and the blossom pushed forth becomes the 
prey of an untimely frost, or an eastern blight. Instead of treating it, as the 
fond mother does her darling son, guarding him against the cold north and 
chilling east, these should be the very aspects we give this tree, thus to nat- 
uralize, and renrler it sufficiently hardy for our clinnite. 



n 

XVe will now olTtr a fiw worJs on tlie pear. litre lliis has been nearly 
as mucli nfjlected as its relation, tiiu thorn. Arising from the seeds pro- 
miscuously scattered from the tree ; the fruit is generally too r-Aringenf, 
and acerb to tempt the ajipctite of man or beast. But, under the foster- 
ing hand of the skillful orchardist, it assumes an entirely new character. 
Grafiing calls forth a very different progeny. From tjjis is made a liquor 
scarcely known, except by name, in tiiis place ; which, for llavour, and 
gas'eous hvelintts, equals (he bris-ktst C'hampiiign. 

The plum, though formerly most ol its varieties were common here, has 
degenerated ; for though it generally blossoms, we seldom have fruit. The 
cause and a remedy would immediately be discovered by a skillful horti- 
culturist ; we therefore leave the subject for his investigation. 

'J'he cherry is, here, a greater favorite, than its intrinsic worth deserves ; 
to make room for it, all trees merely ornamental about our houses, have 
been extirpated. The season of its fruit is very short, and the fruit not the 
most healthy. To the tender stomachs of cliildren it is peculiarly fatal. 

We v^ill close the subject witii a few observations on two exotic 
ornamental trees. The Lombnrdy poplar had its day, and twenty years 
ago was in such high repute, that any one to be considered a man of taste, 
must have a few set about his house. Alas I " Troga fuit ;" and what 
\ irgil considers designative of women is equally applicable to man. "Sem- 
per mutabile, ice. We are now extirpating it fast as possible, not for any 
crime, it has committed, not for any damage we have sustained, but solely 
owing to the fickleness of taste, and the unaccountable freaks of whim, and 
caprice. This tree is by no means fastidious in its choice of soils, and on 
those, that are tolerably fertile, its growth is exceedingly rapid. 

The horse chesnut, or buck-eye of the west is just coming into fashion. 
This in the western forests is the earliest to exhibit its foilage. In height 
and horizontal extent, it is much less than the elm ; thus enabling us to 
bring it nearer to our doors and windows. Its foilage is vastly denser, and 
consequently affords a more refreshing shade. 

Of the pine, we have three species^ white, yellow, and pitch, or Norway 
pine. Tke white pine may properly be denominated the queen of the A- 
raerican forest. With us this is scarce and greatly inferior in size to the 
same tree in Maine. Its uses are for masts, timber, boards and shingles. 
The yellow and pitch are common, and their uses well known. 

'J'he spruce and hemlock are thinly interspersed over the swampy grounds. 
The locust is highly valuable in the construction of ships, and as fencing 
posts, defying both water and worms. The most important reason for its 
being taken into favor here, is the reputation it has acquiied of enriching 
the land, on which it grows. Though this, by the ignorant and unreflecting 
may be considered, as mere prejudice unfounded in reason, and uncounte- 
nanccd by nature ; yet, let us give it an impartial exaniinatinn. Not hav- 
ing viewed the leaf either chemically or even microscopically, we shall 
proceed with great reserve, and deference to the ojiinions of olhcr.^. Both 



12 

botonisls and naturalists say that plants receive their nourishment from the 
atmosphere. The bed of earth in which we place them, serves merely to 
give them firm footing and also as a laboratory ibr the preparation of nutri- 
ment to be through little strainers or hair-like roots, conveyed to every part 
of the tree. But while the roots are thus labouring; we must not suppose 
the leaves inactive. By expiration, they throw out all injurious and useless 
miatter, during the day, and in the night, absorb what is congenial and 
nutritive. This is not the wild vagary of a visionary theorist ; but an opin- 
ion tested by experiments, and established by facts. The different portions 
of oxigen, absorbed by different species of trees, occasions the different 
shades of their foilage. All trees contribute in different proportions, to the 
fertility of the ground where they are located. Wood land when cleared 
for tillage, we find (^ceteris paribus) richer, than old fields, that have long 
lain fallow. The locust leaf probably by its peculiar organization, instead 
of dissipating, and thus wasting in the atmosphere, its collected stock of nu- 
triment, retains and carries it to the earth. 

The hickory is an exceedingly tough strong coarse grained wood, but 
invariably warps in the sun — its fruit is not surpassed, if equalled, by any 
thing of the kind imported. 

The butter-nut or oil nut, is also an indigenous tree and affords us the fin- 
est pickle in the country, and the nut when ripe very much resembles the 
English walnut, not in shape but flavor. 

Of shrubs or bushes too that deserve our attention,is the myrtle, or bayberry 
bush, yielding a very valuable green wax. This though formerly common, 
has now nearly disappeared, under the peasants scythe, and given place to 
grass for the herd. 

The fate of the whortleberry bush has been less severe. For, though it has 
been persecuted and destroyed in the open fields, or pastures, it has found 
an asylum beneath the trees of the neighbouring woods ; affording suste- 
nance to an innumerable multitude of birds, and harmless, healthy, and very 
agreeable amusement to children. This berry is highly nutritive, gently 
tonic, and in large quantities mildly laxative. When eaten by children, 
even to satiety, this is perfectly harmless ; what we can say of few other 
fruits. To an unvitiated palate, this is preferable to the imported raisin, or 
current, and certainly vastly more wholesome. We appreciate not its val- 
ue because so accessible and common. 

It is proper, we observe, casting a frowning look toward foreign climes, 
we request they would send us none of their lemons, limes or even crabbs, 
while we enjoy in such abundance the most palatable acid Heaven ever 
formed, the cranberry. 

This place has been very bountifully and tastefully watered, if this last 
term be correctly applicable to dame nature. A stream with water suffi- 
cient to move in any part of it, such wheels as are usually constructed for grist 
mills, justly termed a large rivulet, or small river, meanders longitudinally 
from the S. West to the N. East extremity ; over a bed of such moderate 



13 

iksccnt as causes a pleasantly flowing current, neither rapid, nor sluggish. 
In a few places the passage of the water is considerably accelerated. 

By the wisdom and goodness of Providence, this usually occurs, where 
the high grounds approximate even to the verge of the water ; thus inviting 
the construction of dams for propelling every kind of machinery. These 
scites, however, considering the length of the stream, are not numerous- 
But this deprivation is amply compensated by the rich and beau tiful mea- 
dows, which skirl the borders of this stream, nearly its whole course; to 
the farmer invaluable, perhajis indispensable. These are throughout inter- 
spersed with a vast variety of flowers, that shoot up in their season, offering 
to the eye of the botanist, a fascinating prospect. These are little regard- 
ed by the farmer, who considers only the luxuriant crop of grass, that spon- 
taneously arises after the annual irrigation of the river. Mowing and cart- 
ing into the barn is the only labor, required of the proprietor, for the river 
has kindly performed the ofllce of manuring ; and as cattle are not usually 
suffered to range here, fencing is unnecessary. Each man's lot is designated 
by stakes, if not separated by a brook, or some other natural boundary. 

This strtam during its passage, at proper spaces, receives the tribute of 
several rivulets ; which are also bordered by meadows, but of less value, not 
being annually completely overflowed. 

Several brooks also, during winter and spring disembogue themselves into 
this, with the decayed vegetable matter, and slime, that has accumulated 
on their beds, during summer, when they are dry. 

The principal stream with its branches would probably iu case of a se- 
vere drought be laid bare to their beds by evaporation, in other words, at- 
mospheric absorption ; had not a kind Creator wisely provided a remedy, 
preventing this evil, by numerous little springs in the bed of the river, 
vastly colder than the running water. Tliis too is wisely ordered to pre. 
serve the temperature of the now sluggishly flowing stream, sufliciently cool 
for its inhabitants, the fish. The resort of little trout to these, first excited 
attention, and discovered the cause. 

Southeast of this river nearly parallel stretches a chain of large ponds. 
Some of these were formerly connected. Alluvial accretion from appear- 
ances has now entirely separated them. These all have an outlet for the 
discharge of superfluous water, except one, which is surrounded by high 
land. The largest of these, situated at the eaMern extremity of the town, 
and of magnitude suflicient to entitle it to the name of lake, discharges wa- 
ter sufficient to support a manufacturing establishment and gristmill. These 
sheets of water, in number 6, are pleasant, and healthy resorts for parties of 
pleasure ; all of them abounding in a variety offish and tortoise. 

Of grasses in repute, we have said nothing. Herds grass and clover arc 
highest in estimation, fit. foin and lucern have not yet attracted the atten- 
tion of our farmers. A most invaluable kind of grass, flourishing in the irrigated 
meadows, well known by the names of fowl meadow grass, instead of gain- 
ing ground, appears rather on the decrease. This probably arises from the 



14 

seed not rece ving proper attention. The practice in some towns is mow 
ing it alternately in the blossom, and in seed. The first makes the best hay. 
But a portion of it should certainly remain for the seed to ripen. Without 
such precaution, this highly estimable grass will finally fail and disappear. 

Another thing we could suggest, as an improvement ; the construction of 
low dams, at proper distances, not to interfere with water priviltges, to be 
used in time ot floods to increase and continue their beneficial effect ; nar- 
row shallow ditches, also, to conduct the water on to those higher parts, 
wliere it seldom readies, readily distinguished by their meagre appearance. 

liaving now ranged over the surface of the ground, and cursorily examin- 
ed those objects that arrtsted our attention, we will descend into the bosom 
of the earth, and try our fortune there at discovery. 

1 hrough most parts of this town, are distributed, so as to accommodate 
the whole, peat bogs or swamps ; which, when wood fails, will afford an 
inexhaustable source of fuel. 

Most of the rocks here are granite. Some portions of this are strongly 
tinctured with iron. Of this are manufactured our best mill-stones. Frag- 
ments of amosphous quarts are common. But slate and sand stone, if they 
exist here, have not yet appeared. 

Clay is not common, though a few beds of it have been discovered, how 
extensive, and how valuable for making brick, having never been opened, is 
not yet known. Some of these are strongly impregnated with iron. 

This last mineral is very common, though not worked at present. We 
will observe, en passant, thai Divine Providence has, very wisely and kindly 
distributed iron tiiroughout all the coujilries of the earth, while the preciou^ 
metals he has given with a sparing hand, generally too concealed them deep 
beneath the surface, and rendered them accessible only to severe labour and 
perseverance. Iron is an indispensible article in civilized life. In fact a 
knowledge of the various uses of this metal constitutes the difference be- 
tween social and savage life. This is often wrought into instruments, or tools 
or parts of the same that will command more than their weight in gold. 

Giving up our researches beneath the earth, we return, and resume our 
desultory ramble on the surface. 

Quitting vegetable life, let us spend a few moments in the examination of 
animated nature ; and from insects and reptiles ascend to " the human fact 
divi7ie.^' 

Our insects are probably the same, nearly, with those of other countries, 
under the same latitude and at the same distance from the ocean. For both 
these must be consulted, when we would ascertain the temperature of the 
climate. True, we have no spiders sufficiently sturdy to prey on birds, like 
those of South America. Nor have we any ants, so powerful and voracious 
as to carry off a quarter of beef in the course of a night, as do those of Afri- 
ca. Still from ours, little and apparently contemptible, as they seem, we 
may take lessons of industry, economy, and perseverance highly worthy of 
imitation. 



15 

All other insect's wc pass by, to enjoy a momenfnry inspection of that 
accurate geometer, accomplished architect, skilU'iil projector, and occasion- 
ally tiie aeronaut, measure her lines, ascertain tlie nuiulier of cicpjreej of the 
various angle.", scrutinize the texture of her net ; how ailmirably ada;)ted 
to the purpose intended ? 'Tis the work of God^ through the agency of his 
irrational o/r>pring. Instinct, therefore, within its very contracted sphere, 
surpasses our so much vaunted reason. But let us remember, instinct is 
finite ; reason infinite. 

We mention two facts, respecting this insect, perhaps not generally knoM'n. 
Like the serpent and tjsh, slic preys on her own species : Kvery thing caught 
in her toilf, that she can master, she devours. 

When the time, that her progeny should see light, she bursts asunder, 
yields up her own life, and leaves behind myriads of successors. \Vere 
there a large proportion of them suffered to attain maturity, they would 
prove a plague more grievous than any that Pbaroah sufll'ered. Providence 
has wisely provided against this, by making them the prey of their own spe- 
cies; other insect*, and of birds. 

We proceed now to reptiles. As we pass on, let us, for a moment, pause, 
and pay our respects to that wrongfully persecuted, oppressed, and \)y women 
and children, shamefully abused little innocenl—the load. Tha little child, 
while his judgment is unprejudiced, and his taste unsophisticated, picks this 
up, and bears it on the palm of his hand, or in his bosom, to his mother, ex- 
pecting her admiration, of the beauty of his newly acquired plaything. How 
then must he be surprised, and mortified, at the salutation of "you dirty lit- 
tle blockhead, throw away that na'ty, ugly poisonous toad. Here let me 
kill him." As an excuse for this hatred of a harmless creature, we are told, 
his form is uncomely, his gait awkward, and the colour of his skin 
disgusting. Here we again see the wisdom of Divine Providence. A\'e make 
no apology for so often refering to this. It is the foundation of our resig- 
nation, comfort, and consolation in the present life, likewise of our faith and 
hope in a future one. 

The form of this useful little animal is admirably adapted to its mode of 
life and habits. Scooping out a little cave e;^g shaped, and in dimensions 
corresponding precisely with his own bulk, he is safely stowed awa}-, the 
whole surface of his body coming in contact with the interior of his domicile, 
In other words exactly filling it, he securely enjoys during the sultry hours of 
a summer's day, refreshing coolness. In proportion as you render his form 
less compact, and his legs more extensive, you disqualify him for his present 
station, ami mode of existence, lie is not, however, sluggish, and stupid. 
I,et a fly or bug pa«s by him within the scope of his powers ; the most skill- 
ful sportsman is not surer of bringing down the woodcock, that passes with- 
in the range of his fowling-piece; than this little apparently clumsy fellow 
is of seizing his game. lie neither jumps, leaps, nor bounds; but quick as 
light darts at his object. Respecting beauty, we merely observe, no belle, 
in our land, can display handsomer eyes. True they exhibit not the pcne- 



16 

trating scrutinizing shrewd, sagacious glance of the serpent. On the contra- 
ry they are mild, and placid =ind serene. 

But what can we say of his hag-like wrinkled hide. We say, viewed 
through a magnifier, 'tis very beautiful. But whether so or not; this is the 
only defence. Heaven has given him, against his natural enemy, the snake, 
making him somewhat resemble the ground ; but much more a decayed chip, 
fragment of wood, moss, &c. and thus causing his being mistaken for these. 
On the contrary, the brilliancy of the serpent's colours occasion his being 
readily seen and often avoided. Ah, but his poison ! With due deference, 
and respect for the venerable motherhood, we merely say this never existed, 
except in the brain of an old woman, (d) The economy of nature is, where 
she has given for defence a sack of virus ; to provide also for its convey- 
ance, or expulsion. Now the toad never bites, nor even spits. He makes 
no kind of defence, when attacked, nor tries to escape, only on the ap- 
proach of his inexorably ravenous devourer. 

But now let us view him as our benefactor. He approaches man with confi- 
dence, and even seeks an asylum beneath his threshold. Here he finds se- 
curity from his subtle foe ; and here his game is most plenty. Reposing 
during the day, at night he sallies forth, destroying, wherever found, a host 
of marauders, bugs, flies, &c, that commit unremitted depredation on our 
tender vines and fruit trees. In the morning he returns, without injuring even 
a blade of grass, to his humble retreat. There he reposes, till the next eve- 
ning, unless called forth by a shower, of which he is very fond. Let us, then, 
discarding all prejudice, treat this perfectly harmless and even useful animal, 
as a friend and benefactor. 

Now we will look at his enemy. We must approach him with caution^ 
and he will view us with suspicion. If he doubt his ability to cope with us, 
instead of a precipitate flight, he sets one eye as a sentinel on our motion, 
and with the other reconnoitres the ground for a retreat. A small tuft of 
grass, or a few leaves suffice for his hiding place. Whether Eve imparted 
to him the aptitude of leaves to screen from observation, in return for his 
instruction on the lusciousness of the apple, is uncertain. However, a very 
small portion of what were necessary to hide her shame, is sufficient for his 
concealment. The brandishing of his forked tongue, is only parleying for a 
truce, and, like the boisterous threats of a coward, always indicative of fear. 
When wounded, his dernier resort is feigning himself dead, and afterwards 
decamping. 

In this place we have only seven species. The rattle, black, striped, 
o-arter house, or milk-adder, green and little brown, black water snake, 
or black viper. 

Of the rattle snake in North America we have five species, great diamond 
backed zigzag size, backed little speckled and dwarf or bastard rattle snake. 
Of these we are troubled only with the little speckled. What few remains of 
these harbor in the deep crevices of ourgranite ledges, and are seldom seen and 
more seldom arrive to maturity. The appearance of the reptile creature 



It 

ranging through his native wilds, with scale?, burnisher! by a burnine sun, 
the yellow thus rendered truly golden, figured with jelly biHck, ani 
the whole interspersed with delicately shaded piir|)le, equalling the Tyrian- 
dye, would be inexpressibly beautiful, were not the idea of danger' 
and even death, inseparably associated ; which instantly change the 
beautiful into the lublime, the delightful into the horrible. From the 
skin of this awful creature, during «uuimer, is exhaled an aroma, in fra- 
grance, vying with the far famed otto of roses. All the»e striking quali- 
ties arc destroyed by confineiueut. The colours fade away, tLc aroma is 
gone, and even the fierceness lost. 

The black snake surpasses all his kind, in strength and flcetness. lie is 
in hot weather a real racer. 

The blac k speckled bellied water snake is rather clumsy on land ; bu 
Tery active in the water, and an expert fisherman. 

The striped or garter snake is generally found in open pastures and fields, 
and is exceedingly prolific, producing at once from eighty to one hundred; 
being oviparous ut the time of the egg?; hatching, she receives them through 
the mouth into the maw, where they have free ingress and egress, till they 
are large enough to take care of themselves. At the apj roach of danger, by 
some signal, she collects them, swallows, and bears them to a place of se- 
curity. Why they are not digested like other food in the same situation, is 
an unaccountable economy in their nature, that renders the gastric juice 
perfectly harmless to them. The serpent therefore on devouring his own 
species, always kills, before he swallows. With other animals this is indif- 
ferent. Serpents are swallowed and grow in the human stomach, (e.) 

The house adder has the reputation of milking our cows and sheep. It is 
often found in cur cellars and barns. 

The green snake is a little harmless creature, when full grown, about 
twelve or fourteen inches long, too small to prey on any thing larger, than 
flies and grasshoppers. 

The little brown, and black, with a red belly, and ring round his neck, 
are mere dwarfs, scarcely bigger than earth woruis. 

One curious fact, respecting serpents, is, that although fighting, and de- 
vouring each other during summer, they indiscriminately crowd together, on 
the approach of winter ; and early in the spring, hundreds of all species, 
beloncing to the climate, have been taken out, twined together like the 
strands of a rope. 

Of the tortoise, we have four species, little black, yellow, spotted, little 
aligator backed, dusky backed, and a great snapping mud tortoise. All 
these are edible, but only the last highly valuable. 

The two smaller species are exceedingly coy, and seldom quit the banks. 
On the alarm of danger, either by sight or sound, they look caulionsly 
around, and plunge into the wat<-r, but immediately reappear, cuuliouslif 
raising the head above the surface, and thoroughly reconnoilrins, and if the 
danger has not disappeared, again replunging, and nhortly again the head 
reappearing; reminding u« of our lassi s of the last century; when it was 
rustomary at the sound of hoofs, or the sigiit of a passing stranger, for pach 
c 



18 

miss in the house to run to the sides of the window, and project her head and 
breast forward to examine the stran£;er's appearance-, and pretentions ; and 
the moment his attention seemed attracted, dodged aside, hoping in the 
language of Virgil, they were not undiscovered ; but to ascertain this point 
beyond a doubt, immediately returning to the charge, but finding themselves 
the objects of more earnest scrutiny, again retreated. This is probably a relic 
of manners formed during Indian wars, when our forefathers resided in 
stockaded forts, where the utmost caution was proper in approaching the 
ports and loop holes of a block house ; where Indian arrows would, not only 
extinguish an eye, but destroy life. 

We now notice the leviathan of our ponds, the great mud tortoise, afraid 
of nothing, and ready to fight with every thing. He seizes, and obstinately 
gripes it, even a burning coal. He is esteemed by epicures, inferior in sue 
only to the tropical tortoise. 

Fish present themselves next to our consideration. Our ponds afford us 
five species, beside the eel ; pickerel, perch, chafin, roach and a dwarf cat 
fish, here called pout. All these are excellent pan fish. Suckers and shi- 
ners are unworthy of enumeration. The pickerel is among fish, what the 
hawk is among birds, devouring every thing, he can catch. The perch is a 
sweet close grained fish. The roach or ruff also, is sweet, but small and bony. 
Our ponds and streams abound so much in fish as to render them the favor- 
ite resort of the neighboring towns, and the metropolis, in parties of pleas- 
ure. Our cool brooks were formerly well stocked with trout. These have 
nearly all been drawn forth by skilful anglers. Formerly alewives in abund- 
ance ascended into our ponds to deposite their spawn, and were a source of 
revenue to the town. Now, bj the improper construction of dams below, 
they are entirely stopped. 

For the amusement of the fowler, we have a few snipes and wood-cocks, 
considerably many partridges, and numerous flocks of quails. Among our 
songsters, we consider robin red-breast entitled to our first notice. He is 
our benefactor in the removal of worms and insects from our trees and 
grounds, and while praising his Maker, regales us with the morning and 
evening song. The orchard he considers his home ; though his social dis- 
position and confidence in man, would attract him near to houses. But he 
is thence driven away by the wanton sport of the thoughtless unfeeling boys. 
The Baltimore oriel, here known under the name of hanging-bird, also courts 
the friendship and {)rotection of man, being much attached to the elm as a 
residence, the pendent boughs offering a secure situation for his nest. His 
notes are few, shrill, and sonorous, but clear, melodious and exhilirating. If 
his voice lack in compass, that is abundantly compensated by the beauty of 
his plumage. 

The blue bird too, the harbinger of spring, being among the first, that 
make their appearance, and the very first, whose song is heard proclaiming 
the approach of the bud, the blossom, leaf and fruit, after nature having been 
30 long enfolded in the icy arms of winter, is listened to by the unsophisti- 
cated, artless ear of youth with rfipturous emotion. His notes are not pierc- 



,nj ; but niilJ and soothing. 'Tie tlieir novcKj, (Iiat constitutes half their 
churiii, like Ibejirsl fruilt of the season^ anil indeed our fii.st acquaintanoe 
with aluiOiit evtry j;ratification in this> life. 

The martin and the swallow belonging to the same genu,", place them- 
selves, still more nearly, under tiie protection of man. NViiher the hoarse 
chatteriii); of the former, not the soft twittering of the latter, though very 
social, can be considered musical. However they are our benefactors, sub- 
sisting on the insect tribe, and capturing tkis^ while on the wing, never 
preying on our vegetables, and seldom descending to the ground, though of- 
ten washing themselves in our streams and ponds. Such being their liabifs) 
iiiey are not much annoyed by the mischievous sports of our children. 

Let us now examine some of the songsters of our groves. There we shall 
find the red thrush, and the blue thrush, vulgarly called mavis, and cat bird ; 
the latter from the resemblance of his every day note to ;hi- cry of the cat. 
This last too somewhat resembles the mocking bird in imitating and im- 
proving the notts of other birds. The mavis is also a sweet songster. 

If we repair to our brook meadows, our ears will be greeted by the whist- 
ling of the red winged black bird, (the same with the English starling) and 
the warbling of the bobolinkhorn. Both the males of these are black. The 
first ornamented with a bright scarlet spot on each wing, like an epaulette ; 
the last variegated with bright yellow. The females, on the contrary, by 
a wise provision of Divine Providence, are clad in dirty grey, nearly of the 
color of which their nests are constructed. Did (hey exhibit the same t. rdj 
plumage with their mates, their nests being built in a tuft or clunjp of grass, 
they would become a conspicuous prey to their enemies, both above and 
below. Their modest appearance, is their only security during the time of 
jucubation. 

We must with a sweeping clause conclude our observations on birds. Wc 
have the silver notes of the lark to rouse u< in the morning, but he is unso- 
cial. We have the yellow bird in plumage, surpassing in sweetness of note, 
certainly equalling the imported canary. We have crows, though no ravens, 
except transient visiters. The crow is a very sagacious bird, and hesitates 
not to attack the hawk, though single handed, he is no match for him ; but 
by a well known signal, he calls to his aid the whole black fraternitj-, and 
divests his more industrious neighbor of his hard earned property. The jay 
is a wag among birds, and like all wa<s more mischievous than useful. He 
imitates the voices of other birds, not to improve his own, but to jeer and 
ridicule them. He is the first by a peculiar scream or outcry, li proclaim 
the approach of danger, and ia among the first to repel the ai'proack of the 
crow, hawk, or even a more powerful enemy. 

Of hawki we have, as constant residents, two species, the great hen hawk, 
and sparrowhawk. Occasionally a species of kite visit us, commonly, when 
that gregarious, migratory bird, the pigeon finds subsistence in our woods. 

We have only two species of the owl, constantly resident, the little 
screech, and great hoot-loo. 

Passing over the numerous kinds of hopping, skipping, jumping little an 



20 

uials, such as the weaze], squirrel, Sic. vie will make a few observations oja 
our doiuestic animals. 

Of the herd, the noblest of quadrupeds, we have nothing to boast above 
our neighbors. Nor can our neat cattle much distinguish us in the weight of 
beef, butter, or cheese produced. The leanness of their pastures forbids it. 
Sheep have been tried, and for the same reason, proved an unprofitable 
speculation. Goats were a great convenience here for the first half century 
after the incorporhtion of this town, while it was an object to subdue wild 
lands, and destroy every unprotected green thing. But when wild food 
failed, there ingenious climbsrs conceived they were entitled to support from 
the labors of their masters. Accordingly all fruit trees and ornamented 
shrubs, soon resembled the stump of Dagon. Goats were of course dis- 
carded. 

Our skill in rearing swine, we believe is not surpassed by any of our neigh- 
bors. We are not ashamed to exhibit them, even in the Charhstovin 
market. 

Deer, bears, and wolves have long since disappeared. The fox, only has 
not been thrust out ; like some of the Canaanites, being too cunning to quit 
the land of his nativity. 

We will now try to ascend to the connecting link between this earth and 
her o-reat and all-wise Maker. In other words, trace the progress of the 
human mind from the dawn of civilization to its present polished state, civil 
history divided into religious, social and political. 

The first object, of our pious ancestors, after obtaining a charter of in- 
corporation from the colonial legislature, was finding a pious young man, 
instructed rii;htly to divide the word, as a teacher and pastor, to lead his 
flock in green pastures, beside fresh streams. No one so nearly united all 

hearts as Rev. J. S 1, of Milton. He was accordingly the first minister of 

the first christian church in F m, and ordained 8th Oct. 1701, and 

died 7lh April, 1745, aged 67. 

Let us take a cursory view of the temper or religious feelings of those 
times. 

The Salem delusion had measurably subsided ; though many pious, well 
meaning souls, if they had any meaning at all, still doubted, whether Satan 
had not more power and authority in this world, than their Almighty Maker; 
and accordingly daily, and fervently prayed that the Lord would take the 
regulation of his own affairs, and particularly the government of his rational 
olfspring into his own hands. In those days, the dogmas of Calvin were in 
greater repute, than the precepts of the apostles ; and for St. PauPs milk 
of the word, was administered Galvanism, more corrosive than Sulphuric 
^cid. Wo betide the luckless wight, who then dared question the divinity 
of Christ, and doubted, whether he were indefinitely and absolutely God, 
intrinsically possessing all authority and all power. In those pious times, 
every old woman, whether petticoated, or pantalooned, was a shrewd casu- 
ist an able polemic, and learned divine. The strong hold of the Genevan 
doctrine, was mystery. The above mentioned old ladies were its mo£t 



21 

strenuous advocates ; and seemed to reason as follows: — "Were tLe gos- 
pel a series of truths, addressed to the understanding, human reason would 
never reject it ; for being understood, it would receive immediate and un- 
qualified assent. However, this is not the case. We are in no instance 
called on to understand ; but to believe. " Great is the mystery of godli- 
ness, says the apostle ; and we add, the greater this mystery, the greater 
the faith required to command our assent to the same. Let tliis mystery 
invohe absurdity and the faith to receive it must be supernatural. " Cred, 
quia impossible est." We are treading on enchanted ground, we therefore 
retreat. 

The church in F m, when first organized, consisted of the fol- 
lowing members: — 

Henry Rice,* Caleb Bridges, 

Daniel Rice, Deacon, Thomas Mellen, 

Jonathan Hemenway, do. Benjamin Nurse, 

Thomas Urury, Samuel Winch, 

Thomas Walker, Thomas Frost, ' 

Jchn Stow, John Haven, 

Simon Mellen, Isaac Bowen, 

Peter C'loise, Stephen Jennings, 

Benjamin Bridges, Nathaniel Haven. 

The following is the covenant or bond of union between the members of 
the foregoing church. 

We do under a soul-humbling, and abasing sense of our utter unworlhi- 
ness, of so great and high a privilege, as God is gra>~iously putting into our 
hands. Accept of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, for our God in 
Covenant with us, and do give up ourselves and our seed, according to the 
terms of the everlasting Covenant, to be his, under most sacred and invio- 
lable bonds. Promij^ing by his grace (without which we can do nothing) 
that we will walk together in a Ch--h state, as becomes Saints, according to 
the Rules of his holy word, submitting ourselves and seed unto the Govern- 
ment of the Lord Jesus Christ as King of his Church (afterwards it was ad- 
ded) and to the watch of this churchy managing ourselves toward God and 
man, all in civil and sacred authority, as those ought, who are under the 
teachings of God's holy word and Spirit. Alike declaring it to be our Res- 
olution, that we will, in all things, wherein we may feel short of duty, wait 
upon God for pardoning mercy and grace in and through our Dear Lord 
and Saviour Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever. Amen. 

To persons on their admission into the ch — h, it was said, " ^nd we, the 
church of Christ in this place, do promise to carry it toward you, as a 
ch — h of Christ ought, to its particular members, according to the rule of 
Cod's holy word. 'J'his we do promise in and tliroug!) our Dear Lord Jesus 
Christ, to whom be glory forever." 

The above written was copii<l from a paper drawn by Rev. .Mr. Swift, i 
fometime before hit death. Attest Matthew Bridge. y 



•Henry Rice, in the church record", appears dashed with a pen, imply- 
ing, we suppose, his modestly detiining the office of deacon. 



22 

And it appears, that for above forty year?, the Rev. Mr. Swift disciplined 
his church consistent wilh the abovenientioned covenant as became a wise, 
faithful, rtsigious and prudent pastor, and departed this life (much lament- 
ed) April 7th, 1745. 

The above is ali that appears on the church records for 45 years ; and omniv- 
orous time has destroyed nearly every vestige of traditionary information. All 
we can now learn is, that having built on an elevated scite a bouse sufficient- 
ly capacious for public worship, and a habitation for their minister, not only 
comfortable and convenient, but for those days elegant ; the people contin- 
ued to be harmoniously edified during the whole period of the ministration. 
Wo jars^, no feuds, no schisms occurred, to disturb the peaceful current of 
his labors. 

But no sublunary bliss is perfect. Though all his flock seemed implicitly 
led by his counsels ; yet he sorely experienced the truths ol the scripture 
addge, '"■ whom the Lord ioveth, nim he chasteneth.'' The little ewe lamb 
thrtt slfpt on his bosom was a source of unceasing disquiet. Not from a way- 
wartl temper, nor aii_y other natural imperfection. 'Twas the work of Hea. 
ven. She was mentaily deranged. J he good shepherd of the flock, there- 
fore, lound it necessary to construct anew fold, distantly situated from his 
domicile, whither he could retire, and enjoy sweet communion with Heaven 
and prepare gospel meat, to be given unto each in due season ; peaceably 
listen to the wants, and leeiings of the tender lambs, without distraction, or 
interruption The scite ol this tetudy was near that of his public meeting 
huiise, un the banks of the meandering stream, we have described in size 
about that ol Jordan, when not unflooded. 

If we judge him by the few occasional discourses, which he published, 
we should pronounce him a plain practical Divine; not over anxious to in- 
culcate, what in modern days is termed orthodoxy. Indeed this was then 
unnecessary ; for Christianity was Calvinism, and Calvinism, only, Chris- 
tianity. 

Immediately beneath where formerly arose his pulpit now rest his ashes. 
A large slab of slate, resting on a brick foundation covers his grave, OD 
which is inscribed the following 

EPITAPH : 
Hicjacet 
Qui obiit 1745, aprilis 24 to. 
Mt. anno 67 
Vir ille reverendus D. Joanaes Swift, 
Dotibus & nativi? & acquisitis ornatus. 
Docendi artifeae, exemplar vivendi. 
Felix dum visit 
Mores exhibens secundum divinas regulas 
Episcopo necessaries. 
CommisceDs prudentians serpentis Collamba. 
Innocentiam 



23 

Commertium cum es habcntihus 
In vita perchariis, 
Atque gratam sui, ctsi nicr«fnm memoriam 
Post mortem relinquens. 
"Qui per vanos casus, ft variaque rerum discrimina^^ 
Atque usguead morttm, 
Rnram discrelionem, modestiam, patientiam 
Toluntatique Supreoni Numenis submisionem 
Spectandem prebeus. 
Jam tandera in Do requievit 
Adoptionem 
Scibuet corporis obruti redemplisnem 
Eenpectabundus. 

We now enter a field barren of incident, yielding nothing instructive, cu- 
rious or amusing; much resembling an Africin desart. We mean social 
history, concerning only private character, and domestic occurrence. Un- 
doubtedly many little smothered discontents, and cautiously concealed 
jealousies, ultimately resulting: in animosity and discord, existed in those 
long fiiice fors^otten times. 

For the same disposition has constantly appeared in woman, varied by 
circumstance, ever since she had more confidence in the word of the gorge- 
ously tinsel-clad serpent, than that of her husband, and fancied the former 
of the two, vastly the finer gentleman. Man also hat varied little from the 
character, which he assumed, or rather to which he submitted, or descend- 
ed, or was, by infernal art, subjected. 

When he incaulious-ly, and probably unconsciously, cast off the livery of 
bis Maker, wliich was perfect innocence and purify ; and covered his nak- 
edness with the fig leaves of his mate, when he chose rather to lie down in 
darkness and despair with an accomplished woman, than to be associated 
with the choir of his Maker, in the regions of truth, light and ineffable bliss ; 
when earth quaked and all nature groaned, for GodH best work was mar- 
red, his image defaced. From his hands woman was perfect, exhihi!it<g 
every charm, soothing, conciliating, and comforting, yea, encouragcing 
to the heart of man. But reniodt lied by the arch enemy — what a sad 
piece of work I The most beautiful Angel of Heaven is transformed 
into a ha.; of the heath. God's last and best work %ras adorned with socb 
a multitude of graces, as would require the life of man, fully to discover and 
appreciate. But by Satanic art the interior of this admirable struciure has 
been sadly rifled. Where once were smiles and caresses, now arp found 
only frowns and reproaches. 

All those rancorous feelings have long since subsided, and their remem- 
brance pcrislied. The assailer and assailed, the aggrrs-sorand aggrieved lie 
down together in the dust, and all their animosities have ceased. 

We now return from our digression, to the laborious task of gleaning after 
the sickle of time the few remaining interesting facts. 

After th'ir incorpor.ition the first object that fngrossed the attention r,^ 



24 

the gooci Frammites was finishing the house of public worship, which they 
had previously erected ; preparing a suitable habitation and arable land for 
the use of their highly esteemed, and truly beloved pastor. 

The influence and authority of a christian minister, in the early days of 
New-England, were somewhat patriarchal. The people looked up to him 
for counsel in difficulty and his advice was received with deference and res* 
pect almost reverential. Many disputes were thus settled, quarrels pre- 
vented, and harmony in society preserved. 

The interior of their meeting house, as such edifice was then termed, in 
distinction from Romish and Episcopal churches, was thus constructed. A 
pulpit rising moderately, compared with the height of most modern congre- 
gational desks, was very plainly finished, on the north side of the house, 
which in form was an oblong square, extending longitudinally east and west. 
From the south door, usually much the widest, directly in front, and running 
to the pulpit, was the main or central aisle. On each side, and perpendic- 
ular to this, were rudely constructed plank benches with only a stout oak- 
en joice to support the shoulders, and prevent the erect from falling back- 
wards. These seats were without partition, (so that each occupant sat 
immediately contiguous to his neighbor,) and extended over what was then 
called the body of the house, leaving on each side a small space for an aisle 
or as then rustically named alley ; and beyond that, immediately adjacent 
to the walls of the house, sufficient room for constructing pews. For sever- 
al reasons, an eastern and western door were also formtd. Principally in 
imitation of Solomon''s Temple. Porticos, and even porches were entirely 
out of the question, being too expensive appurtenances. On all sides oftbg 
house, except the north, in the second story, were constructed seats, rising 
in regular gradation like those of an amphitheatre, and extending over about 
half of the area of the floor beneath. This minuteness was thought neces- 
sary, because it represents not only the house, under consideration, but 
nearly every other erected for a similar purpose, more than half a century 
previous. The house being thus far finished, at the expense of the town, 
those, who for the purpose of having their families all seated together, 
p etitioned for liberty to build pews in such situation as suited their 
'amilies. If agreeable to the sense of the town, it was granted by vote iu 
town meeting. Those, who were destitute of pews, were annually seated by 
a commit tee chosen for that purpose, usually the selectmen. By vote in town 
meeting the first year, it was left optional with the committee to seat the 
freeholders, either according to age, or the rate pciid. On the right hand of 
<he venerable Pastor, while ofi'ernig the bread of life to his flock, and hold, 
ing forth to them the conditions and requisitions cf the everlasting gospel^ 
were seated according to weight of character, exhibited either in piety, pro" 
perty, age, not debased by vice, and unwearied plodding or delving useful- 
ness, the freeholder^ of the town, venerable age and past services, appeared in 
front, and according to this prmciple, receded back to those benches tha* 
were filled only with names, 

Correfponding with th 3 seats of their husbands opposite, and on the left 



25 

hand, rows of henltliy, clenn and nently aUircd fcmalo!!, whose ppntly In- 
clined fis;iires, motionless attitude, or posture, downcast eyes, and unvaried 
features exhibited the mo't beautiful sight in the world. They were not an 
assembly of vain and frivolous women, collected to display their charms 
and attract the other sex, but the daughters of Zion met, deeply impressed 
with the solemnity of the occasion, to worship their God. 

In the galleries were seated the children of the foregoing and strangers. 
The front seats, however, were occupied by men of family, and those av/- 
fully dreaded scourges of levity tythingmen. Wo to tlie wicked wight, 
who ilared brave the authority of the guardian of public morals. The re- 
sounding mace, bounding from oaken plaiiU, besjiokc the attention of all, 
and followed by a scowling face and frowning eye, with finger, t^pider like, 
thrnst in rapid vibration toward the trembling culprit, denounced public 
scorn, and endless reprobation. 

Our wonderfully pious ancestors srrupulonsly adhered to the letter of the 
law, and so rigidly enforced the injunctions of the fourth commandment, 
that liberal catholics, and Engli;!) churchmen, accused them of wor^^hipping 
the da;/, instead of the God, who instituted the Sabbath. Be this as it may, 
the indulgence of cheerfulness was reprobated, as a violation of the sanctity 
of the day. Whistling was very wicked, and singin<r, unless in the incom- 
parably elegant paraphrase of Sternhold and flopkiiis, was shocking to eve- 
ry ear under the government of a sanctifiid heart. — Every thing assum- 
ed a sombre hue, a depressing, a heart-chilling aspect. The elastic bound- 
ing step of childhood, what is now deemed peculiarly characteristic of youth- 
ful innocence and simplicity, was then sternly, and indignantly repressed 
as indicative of a heedless disposition, unimpressed with the solemnity and 
sacredness of the day. This was here termed Lord's Day. It i«, however, 
as we have sketched it, without exaggeration, an old fashioned New-Eng- 
land Sabbath. 

Let us cast a retrospective look, and take a s'ight survey of those simple, 
we would say innocent, were we not under the necessity of adding super- 
stitious, and shockingly bigotted times. Necessity then, enforced industry, 
for the acquisition of their daily bread, meat and clothing. Prudence sug- 
gested economy in the construction of buildings, and expenditures for con- 
veniences. Inclinations, the offspring of habit, dictated frugality in the 
consumption at the homely board, of those provisions, Imrdly acquired, by 
constant sweat of the brow. 

Their/oorf compared with modern diet was simple, light and nutritive. — 
During summer they could affortl little meat, but from the nci^rliboring broolc 
drew plenty of C'-h. Milk, butter and cheese, their pastures being only 
partially subdued, were frugally expended. The aromatic astringent weed 
of China, and the bean of Arabia, then were scarcely known. 

Instead of an infu'ion of these, during winter, when the udder of the cow 
ceased to be distended with milk, a cheap, palatable and nutritious substi- 
tute was thus prepared ; into the pot-licjnor, in which corned bcrf and pork 
bad been boiled for dinner, was thrown a few iiandfuls of beans, and boiled 



26 

till perfectly soft, when a small portion of ground maize, or Indian meal, was 
stirred in, moderately to thicken it. This pottage was well iinown, and 
highly esteemed under the name of Beanporridge. This served for the en- 
suing suj'per, and breakfast of the family. 

Strong water, so termed, from its magical effects, by the children in the 
woods, well known, in these degenerate days under the appellation of Ar- 
dent Spirits, was then little understood, and less used. Ah ! how happy 
would have been our lot, had we remained is::norant of the art of manufac- 
turing our own misery ; the art of torturing God's creatures, and by force 
extracting from them a language they were never intended to speak ; the 
art of turning by fermentation and distillation every sweet into bitter, and 
thus rendering a land flowing with milk and honey, in reality a land of drunk- 
enness and debauchery. 

With a sis:h, we throw aside the pencil of declamation and oersume the so- 
ber style of history. 

The good Framinghamites, were not free from trouble though intently 
engaged in their own particular business, and meddled not with their neigh- 
bor's concerns. But this secured them not from the officions interference of 
meddlesome neighbors, who having nothing of consequence of their own, 
wished to know what their neighbors were doing. 
f Framingham thought little of any thing except, drawing closer the cords 
of amity and liberal feeling, and cementing together every part of the new 
fabric. She gave sixty pounds a year to her beloved Pastor, and tive years 
after raised it to seventy. This sum in the present extravagant days might 
support a lamb ; but would hardly keep together the soul and body of its 
shepherd. 

Such was the patriarchal character of the venerable preacher of the gos- 
pel, in those days, that, in the eyes and ears of his hearers, nothing was tod 
good for him ; his corn must be first planted, and his garden first weeded. 
Every thing must be done to enable him to attend without distraction to his 
parochial duties. Not only his wants were supplied, but even his wishes 
' anticipated. 

While Framingham was thus engaged in organizing her church affairs, and 
temporal concerns, rejoicing in the prevalence of internal harmony and 
prosperity, Dame Sherborn assuming the stately airs and matron-like atti- 
tude of mother, insisted on the respect due from a daughter. She demand- 
ed of those of her household, who had settled in the territory now constitut- 
ing the fairest portion of Framingham, the same contributions, as from the 
rest of her family. These exactions they deteimined to resist, and accord- 
ingly applied to Framingham for countenance and support. The Framing- 
hamites very correctly decided in town meeting to assume the responsibility, 
make common cause with the aggrieved ; and for this purpose chose a com- 
mittee to obtain legal information on the subject. 

Sherborn also had her counsel. The course pointed out for her, was very 
obvious. She would sustain no injury from levying taxes on the inhabitants 
of Framinjham. If they submitted to the encroachment, a precedent 



27 

would be es(abliflied, and gire her a legal claim. If prompt and vigoroua- 
oppofition appeared, it would onlj result, uldmutelj in receding froru the 
ground assumed, and relinquishing their contested rights. The colonial 
5latule incorporating the township expressly guaranteed to the citizens of 
Slu-rborn, and other neighboring towns, all their privileges and imnnmities 
from previous grants ; in a word confirnieJ the right of soil, while it alienated 
that of jurisdiction. The contest without recourse to legal process, what- 
ever chagrin it might occasion to jurists, was at last settled to the mutual 
satisfaction of the parties. 

But though thns freed from impending trouble, she was not destined to be 
always quiet. For during the years 1717, 1718, she supported a warmly 
contested suit with Weston, respecting the maintenance of a pauper, one 
M.irgaret Allen ^VelI«, known in those days, und^-r the familiiir appellation 
of I'e^gy ; who, the Framinhatnites contended, of right belonged to Weston, 
tho' sojourning in Fraininghani. \\ tston niaintained the reverse. After expen- 
ding so much as would have mairitained tiic unfortunate girl, during her mis- 
erable pilgrimage on earth, in legal counsel, and producing equal damage to 
Weston and saddling on her the final expense of suppnrt-the Framinhamites 
sat down, and counted too late the cost, but not contented. The reward of 
the Court was that I'eggy should be supported in Framingham, but F. be re- 
munerated by Weston. The account was by Framingham presented, and by 
Weston protested. Framingham again seriously deliberated on a renewal 
of the lawsuit. The poor girl was too much exhausted by sickness for re- 
moval. After being bandied to and fro, the unfortunate young woman might 
well exclaim, I have neither father, nor mother, ye, step mothers, who arc 
so unwilling to give me a little milk and water. I shall soon cease to trou, 
ble you — I shall soon go to your Father and my Father ; where will bo 
peace, and lasting repose. She shortly sunk under that cruel, lingering 
complaint, the consumption. \Vhen danger of expense ceased, animosity- 
ceased, and harmony was restored. 

However, the good Framinhamites were not by this weaned from their fond- 
ness of law. Josejih B r, much the richest, and most influential mail 

at the time, when this tcwn was incorporated, tradition informs us, was for 
twenty years engaged in a legal contest with the heirs of Danforth. A tract 
t)f several thousand acres of land had been purchased by the aforesaid 0. of 
Danforth. 

A large portion of the grant to D. was by him given to the town as a com- 
rnoD, to accommodate the inhabitants with timber, fuel and pasturage. 
Each one had a right to cut down such trees, as suited his purpose, and if 
removed within a limited time after being filled were exclusively his pro- 
perty. This common land being situated in a fertile part of the town, and 
coniequently being more valuable, was by mutual consent of the proprietor 
and town exchanged for a di/Tercntly situated tract. Some informality in 
the proceedings and encroachments on the common land occasioned a long 
series of law-suits, in which IJ r was dee()ly involved. 

If we may credit the accounts of those now verging in age on four score 



28 

and ten yer.rj, the followiug description v/ould be truly characteristic of the 
above peisonage. 

In height he rose considerably above the common statue, though well 
proportioned. His limbs M'ere neatly, and firmly articulated. His muscles 
in size and vigor approached what might be termed Herculean. With head 
erect and features regular, the general aspect of his countenance indicated 
dignity, accompanied with a deeply penetrating shrevudness. Indeed, this, 
instead of being mild and complacent rather bordered on the severe ; that 
uiichangeableness of feature and inflexibility of muscle, which proclaims 
authority and commands respect. He was more noted for vigor of under- 
standing, than suavity of manners, much more feared than loved. This 
character app!i ;d to the branch of his posterity, resident here, must be re- 
versed. Though not deficient in the powers of the head, they have been 
more distinguished by the virtues of the heart. 

The females to the various advantages of mental energy added the bene- 
fit of an early intercourse with the world, a confident, easy, graceful ad- 
dress. Elizabeth of England and Catharine of Russia were their models, 
preferably to Jane Seymour, or Esther the queen. Being const- quently 
independent in sentiment, and acknowledging no other tribunal, than con- 
science ; provided this acquitted, they smiled at public opinion. They have 
been mostly respectably, and what is more, happily married. 

The branch of thi* family, that emigrated, was highly distinguished, by a 
succession of tininent Divines. Piutland, Portsmouth, (N. H.) and even 
Boston are loud in their praise. 

Joseph S. B r, by his enemies, was deemed a dangerous innovator ; 

but, by his friends, a restorer of forgotten truths, a reviver of real religion ; 
and by his enthusiastic adaiirers a model of pulpit eloquence. 

We will merely say, that while here, he shone with the splendor of a large 
comet, and quickly dis;ippeared ; possiblj^ engaged in the same office, in the 
nioral world, which that performs in the natural; connecting and preserving 
the harmony of distant systems. 

The primogenitor of the foregoing was also a man of valor, and long pre- 
vious to the formation of this town, had constructed a fort for defence against 
the savages, who were then exceedingly troublesome. To discover the 
Ecite of that, at the present day, requires the eye of a military engineer, for 
no traces of it remain. The old Colonel, as he was always, in his latter 
days styled, was the agent usually employed by the town in cases of diffi- 
culty and danger, to obviate unnecessary expense, and conciliate the af- 
fection of neighboring corporations. This was not however of his own 
seeking ; for he was too proud to ask a favor of any man ; but from his re- 
putation for superior talents, and address. He represented the town nearly 
thirty years, not however uninterruptedly, for he was repeatedly superced- 
ed during a year or two, by some more {)opular character. 

We have been thus particular in our biographical sketch of this man, be- 
cause bis name is no less iutimatelj connected with the early history of this 



2*) 

place, llian that of Washiiiirton with Ihat of the American confederation. 
He dejiartcd this life in [i-ee epitaph,] aged CI }earf. 

In 1725 the town began to be interested and auit.ited nspet ting the re- 
building, and the removal of the meeting house to a place, "nearly cen- 
tral, as thould be found convenient." Thi< was not immediately effected, 
nor at last without much animosity and contention. 

The North was arrayed against the South; and those near the centre 
took side according to uhim, fancy or interest. Timber was procured, a 
frame constructed, and preparations made for raising the same. But so 
great was now the escittn.ent, that the timber was secretly either removed 
and concealed, or rendered useless by breaking of ttnnons^ and otlierwise 
defacing it. 

At a subsequent town meeting, motions for removing, rebuilding, and 
lastly repairing the old house were succctiively negatived, and the subject 
by vote indefinitely p islponed. 

The Rev. Mr. Swift's salary had been gradually raised to 100 pounds, and 
this in 1730 found inadequate to his comlortable suj'port. An exertion was 
unsuccessfully made in town meeting to raise this h) a grant ; but all that 
conld be obtained was a vole to add to it by contribution. 

Down to this peri ni, little change had been effected in the man- 
ners of society. Luxury had made, comparative!}', no progress in the work 
of corruption. Every thing was strongly marked with simplicity. A thou- 
sand conveniences, now deemed indispensable, were then unknown. The 
one horse chaise, now in some shape or other, accommodating nearly every 
family in the place, was not then in use. The saddle and pillion afforded 
atatt for the aged and infirm; the joulliful and vigorous had not then lost the 
use of their legs. Instead, thercl'ore, of the coach or chaise house of modern' 
days, then conspicuou-ly appeared, the llorst Block. 

Regularly, as the the day returned on each Sabbath morn, Dobbin was 
led forth from the stable, and being duly accoutred. Sir first mounted and 
riding to the horse block. Nam gravely seated herself behind him, forward 
was placed little Josh, supported by Sir's left arm, ManVs lap received 
Betty, and behind all, was seated J^Iolly, supporting and steadying herself 
witli the crujiper. 

The party thus prepared, with downcast eye and solemn face, slowly 
ambled toward the public meeting house. But the voice of nature could 
not always be stifled in the children. Their attention would be attracted, 
by the beautifully variegated scenery beside the way ; which always called 
forth a gentle reproof from their pareiits; who, to withdraw their wandering 
affections, from the vanities of this life, reminded them of the awful place, 
to which they were going. It was " none other than the house of God, and 
the gate of heaven.'" They must look not to the rij,ht hand, nor to the left, 
but only down, and straight forward. 

The New Lngland, or punlanical sabbath, wa?, hero, in those days, 
strictly and rigidly observed. To sketch all its features, and give them an 
accurate delineation, would be an arduous task. We content ourselves 



30 

with an outline. The conlourofthe figure will suffice. 'Twas a day of 
terror to every volatile, fluctuating, vagrant disposition. Nature was ntbed 
in sable, and ail around was sombre and gloomy. " The sons and daugh- 
ters of music were brought low." Even the birds scarcely dared to sing ; 
however eloquently they miijht plead privilege, or insist on caroling the 
praises of their Maker. The lowing of the heifer, little acquainted with 
her own wants, but in reality desirous of a companion, was a sure indica- 
tion that the Lord had forsaken the houfe, and if noi a legion, at least one 
devil had possessed the herd. The death-like silence, und absence of every 
thing hunirin abroad, denoted more respect for the fourth commandment of 
JVIoses, than knowledge of the prece[)ts of Jesus; more attachment to Jew- 
ish ci.s^-.. us, than acqiuuntance with the examples of Christ By the sad 
looks of the women, ^ou would believe they were like the idolatrous Sido- 
nians, rather mourning the death of Adonis, than rejoicing at the resurrec- 
tion and asi ention of our Saviour. 

The inlu<hitaDts of this town were very liberal in their exertions to pro- 
cure proper instruction for their children. Immediately after their incor- 
pi.ration, they employed for several years, a schoolmaster, with a salary of 
forty pounds per annum, Edward Goddard Esq. who subsequently distin- 
guished hiinst-lf in some of the most responsible offices; being frequently 
selectman and moderator, for a long series of years town clerk, and for sev- 
eral years representative in (he General Court. 

After keeping the school here in a place nearly central a few years, it was 
deemed preferable to district the town, and have, what was then termed, a 
travelling school. Six districts were, in town meeting established, and the 
places of instruction designated. The schoolmaster took them in rotation, 
tarrying in each a specified time according to its wealth and population. 

This arrangement was also attended with some inconveniences. The lar- 
ger scholars, particularly boys, during winter from every part of the town, 
flocked, in such numbers to the little cold inconvenient private apartments, 
assigned a= school rooms, that the younger children received comparatively 
a o benefit. It was further observed, that the smallest children would be 
more irjured in their health by waddling through the snow and then sitting 
in a cold room, than ben fitted from any instruction whatever. Further, it 
was urged they learnt nothing themselves, and barred all others from im. 
provemcut. 

Giving due consideration to these reports ; in town meeting it was voted, 
that, in future, the school should travel during summer, and remain station- 
ary at the centre, during winter. 

By this arrangement, both great and small were accommodated — the lit- 
tle children e ngrossed the attention of the master during the season, when 
their elder brothers and sisters were engaged in the business of the farms. In 
winter the sturdy hinds of the woods could at all times, on their rackets or 
snow-shoes, readily gain access to the central school house, which was large 
and accommodatnig. 

The books used at first, were only the Psalter, Testament, and Eometimes 



31 

the Bible. True in latter <1ny?, Dilworth's ScUoolmaster, simameJ Thoma?, 
in bis highly improved spelling book, taught us how to divide words ; but 
alas ! it was most gothically done ; for, when he had once torn tyllabje* 
apart, and separated letters joined by natural afliiiity, it puzzlud the little 
urchins to unite them again. Added to the foregoing, some bungling treatise, 
in favor of an itinerant mendicant school master, an Arithmetic, completed 
the list of school books. 

Indulging our curi()sity by vifiiing the dwelling house of the farn>er, to 
examine its lore, or literary acquisition?, we must enter the kitchen ; (or, in 
those days, they had no parlour, this word being of French origin, from the 
word Parler, to talk, and adopted by English ladies for the convenience of 
drinking tea and talking scandal. 

Well then, as we are in an old fashioned Framingham kitchen, let us re- 
connoitre. If the season be winter the first attractive object is a deep, and 
vaitiy t)road fire plact , in extent 10 by 4 feet, two thirds of this was occupi- 
ed by a fire, well supplied with fuel, and the remainder accommodated with 
an oaken bench, or form, on which usually were seated the smallerchildren; 
sometimes sharply contending for precedency, each striving to get near as 
possible to the sooty back. 

Neat in atlraclirc spUndency, and orderly arrangement, appeared the brill- 
iant " Drester,^'' with the great two feet diametered I'ewter Platter, its as- 
sociates gradually diminishing down to a six iucher, and ending with earth- 
en pans and neatly turned wooden trenchers. 

In another corner and near a window might be seen a shelf, too high to be 
molested by the curiosity of mischievous children, on which was arran-'ed 
the family library. Here the Holy Scriptures could always be found, ac- 
companied, often with the Pilgrim's Progress ; frequently with some pious 
treatise on Popish persecution, always remembering, to furget the trugic 
fate of Servetus. Willard's Body of Divinity, bein» a rejya/cr of many truths 
of which Moses, who first presented the tables, being ignorant, was carefully 
placed in contact with the Old and New Testaments ; and considered much 
better authority, than either. Next came scraps from R. Baxter. Partic- 
ularly, Lcut Words of Mr. Baxter. 

If we are not to be hooted for the expression, %ve will say, among the 
more liberal, the works of U. DeFoe were seen, and poor Robinson Crusoe 
not only amused, but really edified the heart of many a real unsophisltcuted 
christian. 

At this corner, of which we are now speaking, the father of the family 
on ereri/ solemn occasion, was wont to be seated. Thence were fervently 
and honestly breathed forth his pious aspirations to Heaven. 

In those days it was not considired fanatical nor hypocritical to pray in 
one's family. Thence the morning and evening sacrifice, of prayer and sup- 
plication, thanksgiving and praise were statedly offered. 

Having taken a cursory view of the manners and religious feelings of pri- 
vate professors, (luri:i- the oMcn time^ let us in. lulg.- a glance at the rhs- 
courtes from the Sacred UesU, during the same period. Whether learned 



/ 



32 

or not, insrenious or clumsy in their construction, we find them highly sea- 
soned with scraps of Greek and Latin, a condiment, indispensable to render 
them palatable. 

Only one sermon, from the pen of the Rev. Mr Swift, has met our eje. 
It was an Election sermon, preached at Boston before the Great and 
General Assembly of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, in New England, 
May 31st, 1732. 

His t<>xt was Luke xiii. 9, " And if it bear fruit, well ; and if not, ihtn 
after that, thou shalt cut it down." 

His introduction is stately, plainly indicating his consciousness of being 
in the presence of an honour.ible and very erudite assembly. 

His division is learned, elaborate and judicious. The doctrines inferred 
are formally and numerically stated, accurately investigated, and enforced. 

Popery was at that time a legitimate object of attack, for every whip- 
ster, and consequent!}' the old jrentleman was justified in his sly thrusts at 
licr. His Kav vevTToliKTfip^ap vov and Maculae Solares, at the present time, 
would probably be condsidered Maculae Lunares.* 

We will now spend a few moments in the examination of medical practice 
during our old fashioned times. 

Though no Mf.ad was then at the head of his profession, to dictate ra- 
tional practice, yet every neighborhood was thronged with Meads solicit- 
ing a trial of their art. Having ransacked tlie animal and vegetable king- 
doms, and thence plundered a farago, for their magic cauldron, by them 
considered a panacea, they confidently promised the restoration of life, and 
the renewal of youth. They were wonderfully skilled in potions, philter&j 
charms and nostrums. 

From a multitude of these prescriptions, we select a few as characteristic 
of their entire system. (/.) 

Recipe for removing freckles, restoring beauty, preserving youth, &c. &c. 

May dew brushed from the wiiite rose, at midnight, is an infallible oblit- 
erator of freckles, softener and smoother of the skin, and beautifier of the 
complexion. 

Having spoken of the white rose, let us now descant on the virtues of the 
hlack bullock. Remember there must not be a single white hair found about 
him, otherwise the prescription is useless. 

Take the heart of an entirely black bullock, previously five years old, 
boil it in water completely freed from every species of mineral, dry, and 
grate it into some broth that has never had any connexion with fat, in such 
portions, as the patient can bear. Whoever takes this, fasting, if afflicted 
with a nervous disorder, whether hypochondria, dyspepsia, or even indo- 
lence, would infallibly be restored to his station and duties in society. 

Intermittent fevers \ulgarly termed fever and ague was by the following 
summary process expeUed from Ike system. Catch a large, hungry, yet 
very plump and fat spider, be very careful not to kill him, wrap him in his 



* Indications of Liinacy. 



33 

•web, and to prevent his escape, daiil) the web with honey. W iiocver will 
swallow this cannot but choose to be well. 

All inflammatory or acute diseases were thus treated. Internal or general 
affections of the system were sweated to death — when the patient coiil<l no 
longer breathe, all present were satisfied the disease was subdued. T-xtt r- 
nal or local complaints required something speciCc. Nothing was found by 
the venerable dames, more efficacious, than, what we find ourselves at a loss 
to describe. We must again mount our stilts to get through it. Delicate 
reader, thou wilt pardon us, when we describe it, as the posterior ejection 
of a three years old red heifer. 

This recently from bowels, that would have painfully retaintd the same, 
applied as a poultice, assuaged all pain, allayed all iriHamation, and reduced 
every swelling. It was an anodyme, it was an cmolient, it was a sovereign 
balm for every external complaint ; Witchcraft, and snake bites excepted. 

Witchcraft, could be subdueJ only by a Medean preparation originating 
from a black cat baked alive in a brick oven. 

To cure drunkenness, take a live snake and drown him in spirit and let 
the patient drink copiously of the same. To preserve the teeth from decay, 
a black snake exactly six feet in length was necessary. He must be seized 
alive, and bitten through in three places, so completely as to break his 
back. Thi?, his squirming, and the bristling of his scales against the lips, to 
the contrary notwithstanding, would ensure the soundness and beauty of 
the teeth for life. 

All cases of parturation were exclusively under the direction, and control 
of these female majicians. This was certainly correct ; provided, they were 
by a suitable education prepared for their highly important, and honorable 
calling. But when they adopted, as their ruling maxim, " whatever thy 
hands find to do, do it with all thy might." More than one life was often 
endangered. \Sce Appatdix, //.] 

This town if we may credit her records was remarkably fond of law, but 
suspicious of lawyers. For no jurist could here find permanent rest for his 
feet, before 1792. 

The business which has since so copiously fallen into their hands, was erst 
performed by magistrates termed justices of the peace ; in former days great 
characters, now merely lawyer's tools ; where lawyers themselves cannot 
engross the whole business. 

The pandects of Justinian were not, by these honorable gentleman, often 
consulted ; for their very existence was unknown. With the names of 
Grotius and Puff -ndorf they were not acquainted, nor ever attempted for 
the benfit of precedent, reading an Anglo-Norman report. However, they 
were deeply versed in the Mosaic code, alias Lex talionis and this, with a 
few colonial statutes, furnished all their legal authority. Lawyers coming 
into vogue, have now very kindly relieved these gotcjicrf distributers of jus- 
tice, from their onerous commissions by taking the responsibility and profit 
on themselves. 

The good people here, after contending for ten years, about the locntion 
s 



34 

of their meeting house, and always undoing at every succeeding, what had 
been done, at the preceding meeting, finally worn out, and disgusted with 
the obstinacy of clashing interests, sat down, and took breath. The result 
of this deliberation was their coun(ing the cost of everlasting contention, 
and duly estimating naitual concession. Accordingly, after what would, at 
sea, have been considered a dead calm ; they were excited to a resolution, 
to which they steadily and firmly adhered, of locating their house on a bar- 
ren [line flain, looking, a' all public houses then did, to the south so low, 
as to suffer the inconveniences of a deep morrass on the right, and a cold 
inhospitable swamp on the left. It was far inferior to the old scite, which 
.they had deserted, which was elevated, airy, healthy, and pleasant ; while 
the tme chosen, was low, gloomy and unhealthy. But it was the nearest 
central of any spot, on which they could build. This central location, too, 
was the touch-stone, agreed on to banish discord, and restore harmony, 
and friendship to a jealous neighborhood. The talisman however failed, so 
true is it, that when we wish to quarrel, we may always find a cause of dif- 
ference. A new I one of contention was discovered, a sharp contest ensued, 
and has continued, even to the present day. 

A House for the ivorship of our Almighty Father was constructed based 
on a parallelogram of forty eight by fifty five feet, and what it lacked of hor- 
izontal extent was comjiensated by perpendicular elevation. The interior 
was never drfilcd by any kind of paint whatever ; and the exterior was ul- 
timately and clumsily daubed with a coarse dusky olive pigment. 

It was three stories high, or hud (otherwise expressed) two tiers of gal- 
leries. 

The same principle was adopted in the disposal of the pew privileges, 
and body feats as that which regulated the old house, except, that those 
who were autiiorized to construct pews adjacent to the walls of the house 
were enjoined to finish the inside of the same by double boarding high as 
the bottom of (he windows, and thence lathing and plastering, high as the 
first girth, also keeping tlic same together with the windows there situated, 
in repair, under the penalty, on failure, of forfeiting the pews. 

Pews were subsequently exleitded, over a large portion, of the ground 
floor, vhat ivas Ihe.n called the body of the house, and round the walls of the 
galleries. 

They had .'^^o^c completed, what was considered, in former days, a very 
handsome and commodious Meeting House. True they had not the con- 
venience of either portico or porch ; the doors opening immediately on the 
area of (he building. But they had a house of public worship, calculated 
for a large and populous town, and in form according to the fashion of (he 
times. 

All seemed satisfied, and the fiend of discord was supposed to be quietcc'. 
But she could nei(her sleep, nor even slumber, till she had re-organized, 
and called forth her discontt i;(ed, restless, factious spirits, into action. 

Opportunity for (his Avas shortly presented. Tljeir Pastor the Rev. J. 
Swift dying in Apri!, 1745. No occasion could have been mere opportune, 



35 

than tlic St (dement of a succcsfor. For what wonKl please one, wouM 
a«-urcclly <li.«|)Iease niaiiy others. 

The church liavinj jjiven a decided call to Rev. William Vinal, afttr. 
wards of srhool-ketping celt hrity in Boston ; the to« n was on (he 251h of 
.Iiine, 1745, as<emhled for the purpose of ascertaining their minds. It wai 
♦ htn voteil to concur wi'.h the church in their call of spid Vinal to the Gos- 
pel .Mini-trry, and a committee chosen to inform him of the same. The 
meeting havins; been adjourned to the next day, the opposition rallyini,', 
obtained a vote not to srant any money for his support ; thus iiulif)in!j the 
proceedings of their oppovenlf. 

Their next attempt to settle a minister snccerded. Accordingly, Ilev.~ n 
Matthew Bridge, on the 2d ol December following, received an invitation 
to the pastoral charge of their church ; not however without tniich oppo- 
sition. They voted him two hundred and sixty pounds, (old tenor) salary, 
and six hundred pounds (old tenor) settlement, as also fuel ; which he ) 
hesifalin^rly acci'pted. 

Here commences a new era in (he history of (his town. 

Beneath the embers of open animosity, discord and strife, lay, partially 
smothered, secret hear(-burnings, private ^rudtr'^s. End unextinguishable 
cnvyings, needing only the slightest breath to excite them into a flame. 

The settlement of Mr. Bridge, was the loecin to the disaffected, discon- 
tented growlers, who had constantly snutrht occasion of disturbing, and 
confounding all council. His preaching to them was not edifying. It was 
cold, formal, and insipid. They wanted something, warming, animating, 
rousing, and (hat was imbued with the real unction ofth* christian gospel. 
How was it possible, said they, that a sermon prepared like a school boy's 
lesson, and read witli donbt and hesitation, could be productive of con- 
firmation, and real edification. Were not all the disciples of our meek and 
truly humble Saviour, directed to take no thought respecting the defence, 
they should make of their Master and his kingdom; for it should be given 
them, what th(y should say, as occasion required. If too they trusted the 
words of Jesus, they should remember, that he would be with them, even 
unto the end of the world. 

The reply to this was, if the argument proved any thing, it proved too 
much ; for if wt were not carefully, coolly, and deliberately to discuss the 
doctrines of the Holy Scriptures ; but trust for information to the inspiration 
of the moment, and revelations with which none but ourselves could be ac- 
quainted, what need of those scriptures. Our inspirations would abrogate 
the New Testament, as that did the Old. 

By way of rejoinder, much was said of him, "who was born of G. having 
the witness within himself," iic. On one hand, it was urged, that the 
Grace of God, shed abroad in the hearts of all men, was sufficient for their 
salvation, without further light, otherwise the scriptures were given in vain, 
f )n the other it was suggested, that though God's grace was every where vis- 
ible, his sun "hining on (he evil, and the good, and rain desctiiding on the 
juet, and the unjust. His sacred will as divulged in (hf Holv Scriptures 



36 

was truly beyond all calculation estimable. But this was to the carnal 
mind a dead letter. For we are told in the 2d chapter of the 1st Epistle to 
the Corinthians, that the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of 
God, fee. It was consequently plain, although we had the letter, 
we had not the spirit, and new light on the subject was necessary, to 
be vouchsafed by God, at such times and in such measure as bis in- 
finite wisdom dictated. Tills at the present day is denominated special 
Grace. But at the time we are now considering, was called new light, 
and those who received it, were named, rather ambiguously new lights. 
This ajjpeilation, though probably cast at them, as a reproach, they joy ful- 
ly assumed, as a distinctive mark of their superior sanctity, and favor with 
Heaven. 

The dispute usually terminated in logomachy, not reasoning, and certain- 
ly not conviction. 

A very respectable minority thought it their duty to recede from the 
church, with whom they were associated. The language of Scripture was, 
"come out from among them, lest ye be also consumed." 

They were accordingly associated as the second Congregational Church 
in Framingham, and strove Hard, in the colonial legislature, to obtain their 
proportion raised by the town, of funds for the support of the gospel, but 
without success. They had as a town and church agreed to support Rev. 
M. Bridge for their minister. A small portion of them now came forward, 
and asked to be di?chargi;d from their covenant engagements, and to be in- 
dulged with the privilege of a new parish. If such indulgence were grant- 
ed, it would establish a liaiigerous precedent. I'here might be in that little 
town, as many religious societies, as are now formed in the state. The 
daughter might set her face against her mother, and every family exhibit no 
fewer sects than individuals. Such was the language of the Genera! 
Court. 

The petitioners retired iimrmuring, that it was hard they could not be al- 
lowed to worship God, according to their own consciences, which they 
could not do, il they must support not only their own minister, but that of 
their neighbors, whoui they could not and would not hear. They would, 
however, suffer for concietice sake. Rev. Solomon Reed, was ordained 
1747, who had charge of them, a pious, and undoubtedly consciencious 
follower of the Lamb, was not so remarkable for his stature, as for the bold 
stand he took against formality, and, as he termed it, every species of by- 
pocrac}'. His natural powers were good, and his natural acquirements re- 
spectable. His fervency and zeal in the cause of his Great iVlaster, were 
unquestionably laudable. But, alas ! to warm and enlighten the hearts of 
men, and to make them follow that light are very different things. Many 
who had joined him, repented, confessing their error, and returned to their 
first love. 

The society for years, struggled with difficulty, and encountered dangers, 
appalling. These dangers were not of everlasting punishment ; for they 
were well assured against that, by one in whom they implicitly trusted. Yet, 
•"vhile the soul, or Spirit, was luxuriously nourished, the body was in dan- 



37 

jer of starvation. A (livorce, tlicrefore of tlie Church, was indispensihlc 
from tlieir biloved Faster. 

The Aiirtbiiptifts about lliis time i^s^ued forth from thtir retreat, Rhode- 
I'laiid, and accommodated mo!-t 1 1 the soutliern towns of the Bay Stale, 
with their ztaloiis, txleiiiporc, declamatory exliortations. Every j)lacc 
wlitre could be found rcliaious distention, offered a tlieatre for their pious 
cxiiibitions. Tlieir religious sentiments corresponded with those of the 
New Lights, except the article of Baptism. Some doubts arose respecting 
precedency between fuilh and repentance, which occasioned a profane U'ag 
to observe, that the spiritual Car with the Baptists, always proceeded lan- 
dmi ; faith coming first, inimediutely followed by repentance; and behind 
all stood baptism. Hut our moto, or m-ixim here, is " J^'e lude cum sacru.''* 

At any rate the Baptists went on very successfully, in their work of pros- 
elyting, and soon became a mijority of the new society. 

The meeting house, therefore, to become more ceitral to its future occu- 
pants, was taken down and removed from its old scite, which was two miles 
west of the town's centre, to an elevated spot on the south bank of the 
stream, which has been dtscribed, as meandering through the whole town, 
about one mile south of the town's centre. 

Here for tiie prent we leave them, and recur to other interesting occur- 
rences during the period last examiried. 

Tlie town, by their legal exactions, had prevented the establishing a new 
parish; but had not prevented the /ornia/ton of a necleus, to which every 
thing disaffected would adhere. They had not prevented the planting a 
i;erme, that would rise up and over-shadow the whole land. (Liberty of 
conscience !) 

In the heart of the first church and parish existed serious difficulties. Mr.\ 
Bridge's salary was inadequate to the genteel, or even comfortable support ■ 
of a family ; owing,as stated in town meeting, to the rise of agricultural pro- 
duce, and other necessary articles of life. It was accordingly raised, in a few 
years after his settlement, from JC 2G0 old tenor, to £ 80 lawful money ; 
but still failed of its object. 

Consequently every little disaffected spirit enkindled, and burst into a 
puny flame. 

Why, said they, should Mr. Bridge ask us any more, for his support? 

lie surely fares better than we. The more we give, the more he asks. The 
haughty, contemptuous spirit of his wife, we pray to have a small portion 
of gospel humility infused into it. 

The value of money being depreciated in proportion, as every other arti- 
cle was enhanced the nominal sum of his salary was certainly much less 
than what was virtually promised ; and rendered the acceptance of occa- 
sional contributions indispensable to the comfortable su|)port of his family. 
This occasioned the sordid portion of his hearers to murmur forth the appro- 
briouH names, mendicant, and even beggar. 

Having heard his enemies, let us now listen to the friends of the old gen- 
tleman. In other words take probably his real oharacter. 



38 

His form was lofty, his port dignified, his features regular, his aspect mild, 
and pleasant; the tone of his voice soothing and consoling; in a word his 
manners were condescending, conciliating, and every way affable. True 
on the scale of genius, he ranked not so high as his predecessor, and sunk 
vastly below his successor, but as a steward, in tho household of his Great 
Master, as a shepherd, to whom was entrusted a flock, he was always found 
faithful. Every individual of his beloved flock was often, and statedly vis- 
ited, the tvanis, desires and afll'ections of all patiently examined ; and, so 
far as in his power, whether temporal or spiritual, relieved. Had they a 
superabundance of the good things of this life, of which they might impart 
to the loss favored ; he hesitated not to manifest his wants, nor even blush- 
ed at his poverty. But they were equally welcome in his house. 

His doctrine was unequivocally Calviuistic, and excessively Trinitarian. 
To our modern tlieorists, disgustingly so. The only sermon, which he con- 
de.'cended to publish, so far as we can learn, was one delivered at the or- 
dination of l!ie Rev. Eliab Stone, a native of our town, ordained to the pas- 
toral care of the second Church in Reading, May 20tli, 1761, Boston, J. &; 

F. J. Fleet. We extract a few sentences just to exhibit the orthodox feelings 
of the times. 

"Who, without horror, indignation, and grief, can behold infinite powf r 
trampled upon by impotent malice^ the heart of God bleeding, and the sole 
Author of life expiring.'^'' So much for the passion of our Saviour. 

We sluidderingly retreat from the awful scene, and cast an inquiring- 
glance on the civil transactions >>f those days. We find for many years lit- 
tle interesting. Congests with other town?, respecting the support of paupers 
often occurred, and ^vere zealously agitated. 

In town meetin?. May 11th, 1747, a committee was chosen to aid and as- 
sist Margaret Bellows in a prosecution of James Fenning in a case of forni- 
cation, at the Court of Q. Sessions, to be holden at Cambridge the second 
Tuesday of May, inst. 

The crime was probably productive, and the action originated in ascer- 
taining how the fruit should be supported or sustained, in plain language, 
what courts of justice denominate bnslardij. 

Fornicntion, however, was, in the golden age of New-England, considered 
more heinous, and shunned with greater horror, than adultery, at the pre- 
sent degenerated period. Adultery too, according to th^ Mosaic law rank- 
ed with miirder ofthe fir«t degree. 

Let us now examine, what names or families were most conspicuous at 
the period we are considering. We have mentioned the names of B. and 

G. To these may be added those of Haven, Stone, and Hemenway ; not 
to mention some others, then active and influential, but now, by emigration 
or death, nearly' extinct. 

The Haven family has greatly multiplied and flourished, and sent forth 
many of its shoots to other places. 

Their most distins;uished individual, %vas Joseph H. Esq. (of Buckskin 
memory) a man more noted for acuteness of penetration, quickness of ap- 



39 

prehension, and shrewdness of discernment in (he afTairs of common life, 
than for solidity of judgment. He was an oflicer in His Majcbt} 's commis- 
sion of the peace, and for many years an active and viijilant magistrate. In 
addition to bis patrimony he acquired a l)andsome accession of real estate, 
by purch.tsini,' land at a libera) credit, being, by his foresight, fully assured 
that the natural rise of such property would amply remunerate him for all 
risk. 

Alas! envv is the offspring of prosperity and a« naturally follows, merit 
as the shadow, its substance. So Ihou.'ht the old gentleman, when he heard 
wispered around, the harsh words, dishonest, rogue, Sec. But he virtually 
replied, none of these things move me, while I am enabled, by a conscien- 
tiotis exercise of the faculties, (hat Heaven has granted, to prepare a future 
support for my numerous posterity. 

To one trait of his character, designating great foresight, and prudence, 
we are compelled to give unqualitied approbation. 

When he could advantageously dispose of a tract of land, bordering on 
the Jfctng'j highiray^ he always reserved a broad and convenient avenue to 
the back part of the same lot. 

He was of quite an amorous temperament, and withal exceedingly fond 
of power. In his own immediate family, and also the descendants, he strove 
to maintain patriarchal authority. Those relations, who unreservedly sub* 
mitted to his decisions, were sure of a double portion of his favor, but wo 
to those unfortunate wights, who dared claim as a lawful inheritance from 
him, the right of determining for themselves. 

His two sons were educated at the University in Cambridge, and the eld- 
est, Samuel, was a distinguished minister of the Gospel in the first Congre- 
gational Church of Portsmouth, N, H., where he has left a numerous off- 
spring, engaged in various honorable callings. These, if report may be 
credited, have raised, not depressed, the reputation of their forefiUhers. 

John, his second & youngest son, was of an ecceutric disposition, his orbit 
was quite eliptical. His powers were exceedingly versatile. It was ail vue 
with him, whether he were declaiming <m atTair-^ of state in the bar room of 
a tavern, or exhorting the volatile and mercurial to exhibit more gravity and 
seriousness on the floor of a conventicle, or giving a real Roscian grace, 
to some ludicrious anecdote at his own fireside. He emigrated, and resided 
in divers places, but left no male offspring. 

The dau^rhters were all married and their descendants numerous, and 
most of them respectable, some of them highly so. 

Cotempnrary with the aforesaid Joseph, was Joseph II. of a different name. 
This latter with a reputation of half the talent, twice the benevolence, and 
four times the integrity of the former was always able in all cases of person- 
al collision to defeat him in his purposes. Alas ! he stoic away the hearts 
of the people. 

Oh ambition I how (horny thy pillow thou sleepist — not, tiiou reposest — 
not, thou rc^test . 

Most of the other branches of the Haven family have been respcctetl 



40 

rather for plain, good, honest sense, than for brilliant parts. Many 
of the name were elected to the office of deacon, and still more were pas- 
tors of churches. Where by their immovable, inflexible character, 
like seaboard lights, they directed and guided the weather beaten mar- 
riner on the ocean of life into the Haven of tranquility and spiritual repose. 

The name of S/one was here, always respected, and without pnnningi 
carried with it solidity, and weight of character. Their posterity is still 
nr.raerous in the place, though many have emigrated, and several distin- 
gnished themselves in the faculties of divinity and medicine. 

The Hemenways are indemnified for lack of number among the distin- 
guished, by the super-eminent merit of an individual. Rev. Doct. Moses 
H. settled at Wells, in Maine was "himself a host,'' he possessed that ac- 
cumen of discrimination, patience of investigation, and soundness of judg- 
ment, which justly entitled him to he considered fhe Locke of New-Eng- 
land. He never magisterially obtruded his reasons on any one — all was 
gentle insinuation, humble query, or delicate inference. 

Henceforward we find little to engage our attention or interest our feel- 
ings, till We come to the Boston proceedings on the Stamp Act. When in 
town meeting they voted to uphold the Bostonians, and adopted some spir- 
ited resolutions. 

1. In 1773, the town instituted a suit against Joseph Butler, collector of 
taxes, for peculation, defalcation, or at any rate misappropriation of public 
moneys, by him received. 

2d. They dearly learnt the benefit of sueing an insolvent debtor ; and 
the greatest item in the concluding account was a heavy bill of costs. 

February 11th, 1771, a vote of censure was passed in town-meeting 
a-^ainst the practice of shooting at fowls set up as marks. On the principle 
of immoral tendency. Youths of a larger growth, would be led into a sys- 
tem of gambling, closely connected with every species of dissipation. The 
smaller would receive lessons of cruelty, which would make them neither 
n-ood, virtuous, nor in any way valuable citizens, which would certainly not 
enforce Franklin's lesion. "Beware my son of taking away that life, thou 
cannot give." To this it was replied, a doctor, no less a naturalist, than 
Franklin, had boldly asserted, we "must eat or be eaten." If the taking 
of life were cruel, why were the beasts of the field, and the fowls of the 
air committed to man, in his fallen state? We might all of us uninten- 
tionally inflict unnecessary pain, and that, alone, could, by any perversion, 
be interpreted cruelty. While surrounded by a savage foe, 'twas necessary 
we should adopt their mode of fighting; and defeat them with their own 
weapons. Dissipation it was true might be encouraged at meeting 
for marksmen, trying their skill; but not more than by meetings for 
other purposes. Those, who were predisposed to dissipation, would in- 
Julie their favorite propensities, and ultimately establish immoral habits, 
whatever might be the object of the meetings. Gambling, it was said, was 
a delicate subject, and should be approached with caution, otherwise, we 
might stumble on Iniquity in high places. (Jambling was a very indefinite 



41 

lernit lie who purchased proTisions for the market, risked a loss, and of 
course gambled. He who ventured his property on the ocean, f ncounter- 
ed a great risk, and consequent))' deft-rved an adequate compensation, of 
course merchants venturing their all, in other words gambling, by good 
luck, became the richest, and moet powerful class in society. 

To this, la very calm, modest, and deliberate language, was made the 
following rejoinder. 

We must all acknowledge gambling has pervaded every class of society. 
But is it less criminal, because all have partaken in the guilt ? Dissipation 
too is every where nurtured and encouraged. But though unable to extir- 
pate the Bohon Upat, which, if not repressed, at least restrained, mii;ht 
eventually desolate our country, still the lopping off and destroying even 
the humblest shoots, was laudable, and should by all means b^ encouraged. 

Respecting sharp shooters, it was a melancholy reflexion, that they ever 
might be necessary; yet if we had confidence in Heaven, we might safely 
trust Divine Providence, for raising up characters, adequate to the occasion 
when their services would be required. Admitting, that it was our duly to 
be armed against contingencies, were those, whom we trusted to contend 
with the wiles and stratagems of a constantly moving enemy, to acquire 
skill and precision at hitting their mark, by firing at a fixed object ? 

Ye Nimrods of the present day, go to the forest, and reduce the savage 
lords thereof to civilization. If your hearts quake at such danger, rest «at- 
isfied with the useful honor of bringing down the soaring hawk, while look- 
ing with an evil eye on your poultry. Arrest the wily fox, when darting 
across the plain ; circumvent him in his crafty doubline^s, and check the 
midnight marauder. Gut spare, oh I spare the unoflfending bird, that has 
placed himself under your protection, not for brutal nmustmcnt, but to ac- 
commodate you with food and bedding. 

The voice of nature, on this occasion, prevailed, and it was long consid- 
ered disgraceful to shoot at a poor turkey tied to a block. 

The meeting house was " coloured," (as expressed in the town records,) 
in 1776. On the 15th March 1773, a very patriotic Report was made in 
answer to a letter from Boston respecting British aggression and Colonial 
rights. This year Capt. Josiah Stone represented the town. 

Subsequently in January 1774, Determinations, (as they are in the town 
records styled,) were adopted, highly honorable to the spirit and firmness 
of Framingham, in answer to a letter from the Town Clerk of Boston, en- 
closing a copy of .Magna Charta, and also one of the Charter of the Colony. 
This paper began with much warmth, and had great heat ijefore the con- 
clusion. \'ide Appendix. 

" Life and properly are so nearly connected, that the former without the 
'Matter, is only an empty name. Freemen are distinguished from slaves 
♦' only by having an entire right of disposing of every species of property," 
&c. &c. Vide Appendix. 

The delegates to the Provincial Congress at Concord 1774, from this 
place wtre Capt. J. Stone, J. Haven, Esq. and Deacon \Vm. Brown. 



42 

In the same jear instructions were given to tlieir Reprcsenfalive Capt. J- 
Stone, to oppose all aggressions on the Colonial Charier, and to adhere to 
the Constitutional Committee. At the same meeting with real granilt grit 
they voted to purchase a chest of fire arms, and two field pieces, and appro- 
priated the money for the expense. 

On the memorable 19fh of April 1775, %\hen British mercenaries were 
ordered to fire on their unoffending, unresisting brethren ; the roaring of 
fire-arms ■was, early in tlie day, heard at this place, and our lion-hearted 
yeomanry instantly flew to the field of action. Many of them were plough- 
ing in their fields. The oxen were turned loose, and the plough left standing; 
in its half finished furrow. The musket was shouldered, and each repaired 
according to previous arrangement to his respective standard. Two couj- 
panies of minute men had been organized, under expectation of this emer- 
gency. Capt. Thomas Nixon and Capt. Simon Edgel were the command- 
ing officers. 

Nixon had been, previous to the Lexington and Concord fights, promoted 
to a. Coionelcj^ and was from some €ausr^ to us unknown, not their, cer- 
tainly not coward iced ; for he was, on the Continental establishment, con- 
sidered a brave and judicious officer, through the whole revolutionary war. 
Edgel therefore commanded both companies, and distinguished himself for 
7eal, intrepidity and firmness. His policy was to hang on the rear of the re- 
treating enemy, and annoy them as occasion offered, with his sharp shoot- 
ers. He always led, not pushed his men forward. When gently reproved 
by a friend present for too much exposing himself by marching in the mid- 
dle of the road, his reply was truly Spartan. " It is proper, I should set an 
example ; if I fall, I cannot die in a better cause." 

The forces, we then encountered, were accurately disciplined and brave. 
By taking open order, and each rank, in rotation advancing to the front, 
and (here halting, till all had passed before them, and then discharging their 
])ieces, with great precision over their shoulders, produced a partial defence 
in th^ cloud of smoke, and by the incessant shower of bullets, rendered the 
near approach of unexperienced militia exceedingly rash, if not desperate. 
All, that the pursuers could do, with any chance of success, was to watch 
the angles of the road, and by a rapid approach, harrass them obliquely. 

Owing to the ruggedness of the country, a flank guard was nearly useless, 
not being able to keep pace with the main body ; which afforded the assail- 
ants great advantage, enabling them from every stone fence, on the rout, 
hedge and even ravine, to vex, gal), and in a few instances even discomfit 
these invaders of their country. These latter were sometimes thrown into 
momentary confusion ; but by the experience, and calm, deliberate valor 
of the officers, the privates were instantly rallied, and perfect order restored. 

What a pity, that men, so brave, should not iiave been engaged in a bet- 
ter cause. \ide Appendix. 

If, however, we coolly and candidly ccn.*-i(ler the case, we find little rea- 
son to blame the instruments, by wliicli we were injured, and threatened 
with the greatest of evils, slavery, 'i'hose merciuaries, whether from the 
Island or Continent, liad swoin to support their sovereign and country; and 



43 

Vfhere such novfUy was known, con'titiHion. Xow, whether llieir sovereign 
r\cic an individual, or the t^orereign pivple, mude no difference. They lind 
rtceived a valuable consideration, for the ces«ion of some right=, in the se- 
curity of the remainder. A soldier, too, shouM remember, that, when or- 
dered on public service, like Saul, romniaiided to exterminate the whole 
race of the Amakkites j sparing neither the crippled old man, stoopinj, and 
limping, and with faultering voice, and trembling limbs implorinp; a few days 
of grace, for repentance ; nor the infant, iinconscious of danger, smiling 
ble.'singj, in the face of its assassin ; he must consider obedience paramount 
to all other consideratiojis. 

Should foldicrsand sailors wait till they were catisfied of the justice of the 
cause, in which they were engaged, ^vilhout fighting in its defence ; we 
should have neither army nor navy. Extend the principle to all classes or 
society, and civil authority ceases, anarchy would resume the sceptre, at- 
tended by her ministers of state, misrule, discord and confusion. 

But our countrymen fought understandingly, in defence not so much, of 
human as of divine laws, and unalienable rights. 

Yet th* commanding ollicer was guilty of, wantonly and murderously, 
and without shadow of provocation, without waiting for obedience to his 
ordtr of dispersion, firing on peaceable unresisting citizens. The burning 
of private dwelling houses, bowever barbarous, and cruel, could claim nu- 
merous precedents in warfare among civilized nations ; being an expedient 
of necessity ; intended to produce a diversion of the attention, and exer- 
tions of their pursuers, and if possible ensure their own escape. 

From this time, to the Battle of Bunker Hill, nothing important here was 
perceptible, except the din of arms and bustling preparation for vigorous re- 
sistence, of, what then began to be considered, /ore/g-n aggression. No lon- 
ofT resounded the woodman's axe, and scarcely were heard the hammer 
and saw of the mechanic. Every amusement assumed a martial complnx- 
lon, or rather livery. Even the plough-boy hurried through his daily task, 
that he might at evening, attend some boyish training ; and learn the skill- 
ful use of the musket, to wheel and tire by plattoon, to retreat in order, and 
above all to charge furiously yet steadily on the a|)proaching enemy. 

At 10 3'cars of age, each male yo\ith was considered sufiiciently invig- 
orated to encounter the heats and colds of summer and winter, the hunger, 
and thirst, and fatigue, incident to long marches ; and every privation at- 
tached to a camp life. 

Consequently we, in tlJs town, had many of that tender age who disput- 
ed the palm, with their seniors, of exposing their lives for the safety of their 
country, on the tented plains of Cambridge. 

Some of these had the honor of falling on the sharply contested battle 
ground of Saratoga. 

For a list of the killed and wounded of our citizens on the heights of 
Charlestown, alias Bunker IJill, we refer the interested to our Appendix. 

July 1st, 177G, the town voted ai a bounty to all who voluntarily enti r- 
od the Coijtineiital service 11. per mau, and subserjuentiy appointed a coin 



44 

mittee to provide suitable support for the familiei of the loldiers darin|f 
their absence. They also in 1778, appropriated funds for the purchase of 
provisions and clothing for their quota of the Continental army. 

In the autumn of 1775, the first Congregational Church unfortunately 
lost their beloved Pastor, Rev. M. Bridge, whose character we'have already 
given. But as characters vary with varying times, we add a few floating 
observations. 

Immediately after severing ourselves from the mother countrj', and as- 
suming the regulation of our pohtical affairs ; speaking the same language, 
we adopted many of the distinctive party appellations, but somewhat vari- 
ed in their application. Among others the terms Whig and Tory, were as- 
sumed, and thus applied. 

Whig denoted an entire devotedness to the newly established govern- 
ment. But he, who under the influence of antiquated prejudice, lusted, not 
after the leeks and onions of Egypt, but the teas and sugars of oZrf England, 
and believing that we were still in our minority and therefore should act 
wisely by remaining under the guardianship of the mother country, was 
stigmatized by the name of Tory. 

Such feelings or sentinients were imputed to Mr. Bridge. Probably these 
aspersions, or rather detractions originated solely from his excessive mod- 
esty, sometimes degenerating into timidity, and casually expressed in 
doubts of our ultimate success in resisting British aggression. For though 
his statue was lofty, and well proportioned ; his studious habits and seden- 
tary occupation totally disqualified him, for throwing the gauntlet with the 
slout hearts of this place, for intrepidity, firmness and real energy. — 
We mean our Nixons, our Edgels, our Maynards, our Brewers, Hemen- 
ways, Buckminsters, and Frosts, with many others, a host raised up for the 
day of tribulation and trial. 

When our Revolution commenced, praying was considered of no less im- 
portance in our army than profane swearing is at the present day. Each 
gospel minister, for a suitable compensation, proffered hk services,, and in 
rotation performed his duty. Mr. Bridge, say his enemies, learning that 
the dysentery prevailed in the camp, under various pretenses contrived to 
defer his services to the last extremity. We say last extremity, for so it 
proved to him ; for though the epidemic had much subsided, he was reviv- 
ed by the disorder, and could in the language of Job, say, "for the thing, 
which I greatly feared, has come upon me, and that which I was afraid of, 
is come unto me." 

Dysentery ended his life and usefulness, and gave great pain to all inti- 
mately acquainted with him, and little joy to his enemies. 

In October 18th, 1779, the town voted 'to build a monument over their 
late pastor, Mr. Bridge, and chose Deacon Wra. Brown, Josiah Stone, Esq. 
a committee to erect the same. 

This resolution wa» never carried into effect, from some cause to us un- 
known, and not at present easy to be discovered, as all the coramittee have 



45 

jonp slept in dust arouiii! (heir venerable pastor. Possibly the public cof- 
fers being lined only with depreciated paper, and even that drawn forth to 
exhaustion, ini^it have occasioned a delay, and eventually an entire ne- 
glect of the sul)jecf. Added to this the spirit of the times uiiliiated against 
ecclesiaftical supreujacy. 'I'hen it was not considered luore houoralde to 
loll over a ^o^t cu!>liion, than to sleep on the frozen ground, ainl ri^e be- 
tiiurs in delciice of life, and what was vastly dearer, liberty. Cicero's adage, 
^''^irma ccdanl Fo^or,"' u-a* reicrscd. 

The church remained several years without an ordained minister, listen- 
ing to several candidates. In 1777, the (own concured with the church in 
their invitation of Mr. Laban Wheaton to become their gospel aiiuister, and 
offered him X^200 (s^o expressed in the town records) as encouragement, 
what was subsequently termed settlement, and jClOO, bolii in depreciated 
paper, for a salary, the lirit year, if he saw proper to remain with them. Ha 
very prudently declined the offer. Several feeble effort? were subsequently 
made to render (heir offer accep(able, but without succes. t indiug a very 
doubtful chance of receiving even a meagre subsistence, while he minister- 
ed at the Altar ; he turned his eyes on the Bench, and afterward be- 
came an able advocate, in our national counsels, a distinguibhed legis- 
lator. 

The next year, 7tli December, 1778, the (own concurred with (he church 
in (heir invitation of Mr. David Kellogg to become their pastor. All males 
over 21 years of age, were again peruntted to vote, and Mr. K's majority 
was l'i3 to 14. But notwithstanding this unanimity, so inadequate to the 
coml'ortable suppor( of a family was (he offered salary, (hat although pleas- 
ed with (he socie{y of the place, and particularly smi((en with the fascina- 
ting brilliancy of a pair of in(elligent black eyes, he was compelled to say 
no. He ho\vever consented to supply the Desk, if not considered a candi- 
date for settlement. His personal aj)jjearance being prepossessing, his man- 
ners concilitory, great exertions Avere made to retain and secure his ser- 
vices. 

March I3th, 1780, being consulted by a commit(ee, designated for (hat 
purpose, who staled more favorable offers. His reply, as reported in town 
meeting, was, (hat ''he looked upon the work of the Gospel ministry, and 
the care of a Church, so arduous, that he durst not, at present, uuder- 
takt it." 

Alter much discussion, the terms were adjusted to mutual satisfaction ; 
and Kev. David Kellogg was ordained on the second Wednesday of Janu- 
ary, 1781. 

His settlement, as stated in the (own records, was jC346, 13, 4, and his 
annual salary jClOO, to be paid in corn, at 3s. and rye at 4^. per bushel or 
by commutation in money at the market price ; also 20 cords of wood, and 
only half his salary, when by age or other infirmity, unable to supply the 
pulpit. 

This was apparently, a very fair expedient to obviate the evils of a de- 
preciated, and ever fluctuating medium of trade. "It is writttn, that man 



46 

shall nollive by bread alone.'' A variety of meat is necessary for coinfoit' 
able subsistence. Woollen, cotton, and linen fabrics, both in summer and 
winter, are quite convenient, but, in the account, not estimated. The nt:- 
cessity of tea, sugar, 8cc. to say nothing of wine and ardent spirits, in thoso 
bean porrige times, were entirely out of the question. The foregoing being 
cither overlooked, or forgotten, more correctly unforeseen, the contract op- 
erated very unequally on the contracting parties. It was therefore found 
necessary to deviate from the letter, and consult the spirit of the contract, 
accordingly, sometimes more was paid, and sometimes less than the legal 
demand. 

The Baptists had no%v become quite successful in proselyting the Suuth 
}>art of the town. They therefore removed their meeting-house, one mile 
further South. Those who best sacceeded in their pious labors, were igno- 
rant itinerants, who from tinkers, coblers, and fiddlers were by sudden, 
powerful, yea, irresistible illumination, instantaneously converted, and met- 
amorphosed into gospel preachers. The first object of these men was to 
discredit, and put down every regularly established church, by vehemently 
railing against all the prevailing denominations of christians. The flockf 
were assemblages of deluded worldlings, those, who styled themselves sliep- 
herds or pastors, were no other than ravenous wolves, who had either 
crawled under or climbed over the walls of the sheepfold, and were now de- 
■V ouring the Lordfs Heritage. What were their calls to the solemn minis- 
try? A fat living. ''Our Call originated not from man ; nor can the nalu- 
ral man understand tlie doctrines we preach. But we have the Witness 
within us, saying, wo unto jTou, if you preach not the Gospel." Our call 
we therefore consider, in distinction from theirs, an internal Call. 

Tiie ephemeral tribe, which first advanced, to change the hearts of the 
people in this place, quickly passed away ; like the pioneers, or first sef 
tiers, of a savage country ; and as science dawned on us, and human rea- 
son, and learning, and common tense ceased to be considered, in perfect 
hostility with Divine Grace, alias the Spirit of God ; a more rational race 
was required to explain, and inculcate the decrees of Heaven. 

He who first permanently remained here, was a man of good sense and 
some learning. But, like Commodore Trunion, this man was by a trumpet, 
stage horn, or £ome other vociferous instrument, rouzed from his morning 
slumbers, and immediately turned out, believing it the signal of the Last 
Day. If, however, we credit his report of the case, it was not the last, but 
the first day of his real, and true life, being the day, on which he was born 
again. 

In person he was a true representative of Calvin, and wo to any hesita- 
ting Servetiis, who dared question his dogmas. Always stern in his public 
appearance, every where austere, and sometimes even morose, the younger 
part of his hearers, not flock, for he was not regularly inducted into the 
office of shepherd ; looked up to him with awe, not to say terror. For, 
iaid they, " he will forgive no one, no, not even himself. 

However, he had, fortunately, or unfortunately, or some other ately ; we 



Si 



47 

will say innalely, the disposition to convert liis best friends into liis worst en- 
emies. He therclore, consistently, or in perfect accordance with his na- 
ture quarrelled with one of the most substantial pillars of his society. The 
ground of the dilFiculty, if we have been correctly infornaed, was a misun- 
derstandini; respecting the pasturage of the venerable Pastor's horse 
and cows. The closely calculating divine claimed the fruit of the 
trees, because liis cattle consumed the grass of the field. This claim waf 
resisted. " Longa est injuria et raultcc ambages." The holder forth no 
longer preached, he raved, he raged, he railed, he scolded, and pointed and 
hurled all his rockets at an individual. Ilis hearers became disiatisfied. 
When they were assembled, that they might listen to the mild invitations 
of the gospel, they were disgusted with the bursting forth of a splenetic 
temper displayed in an angry countenance, and passionate language. Their 
sorrowful looks unetjuivocally fold the speaker, that he might be more use- 
ful in some other place. He accordingly departed. 

The next incumbent was, previously to his being set apart, a chosen ves- 
sel, a/itdJler, and during his youth up to mature manhood, if we may credit 
his own testimony, a gay, anri thouglitless character. His natural powers 
were respectable, more brilliant than solid. But his acquirements were piti- 
ful. He was grossly ignorant, though excessively assuming;. He was how- 
ever so honest some years after, as to acknowledge, he had been unnecessa- 
rily re-baptised, and undertook the charge of a pedo-baptist society in a res- 
pectable village of Vermont. 

We must now recur to other transactions in this place during the above 
period. We find little that might he considered as memoriable; few events 
worthy of being recorded. The sight of the soldier returned from his cam- 
paign in tattered uniform, lounging in the streets, hi* pocket lined with a cer- 
tificate of faithful service, Sc honorable disciiarge,with other paper? of equal 
value with their weight of paper rags, was nothing peculiar to this place. 

The embarrassment, severe presure on the poor, difSculty, nay, almost 
impossibility of collecting debts, in legal language, exacting the fulfiilment 
of promises, was, probably greater here, than in most other towns. This 
town though poor, was always proud, and ambitious, or as slie would prefer 
having it expressed, public spirited. .She accordingly early involved her 
honor in legal promises, which she could not redeem, in debts which she 
could not cancel. Distress prevaded every class, and was every where 
avfully risible. The poor were the first to feel the crushing ami of the law, 
and the least able to parry its deadly stroke. The cow which yielded a 
pitiful support or mcagred nourishuitnt to twelve furnished children, was 
driven away. 

The trouble here began ; but not here ended. V.wn tiie rich man's oxen 
rcftet! from tlieir labors, in the slfdl of the constable. For though he had 
much property and great possession , he could pro<;ure no money. No cur- 
rent medium Iiad yet been establiohed. The universal cry was, " mone y 
was never eo scarce in the world." 

The precious meluls bad all di5;«ppeared,havinijeiflier retired into the vault* 



48 

of the aTaricious and oppressive, or been exported for the payment of foreign 
debts. To use sacred scripture, on which no draught should be made, on 
ordinary occasions, "The whole head was sick, and tlie whole heart faint." 
Evenlually, Dame Town herself was complimented with a polite tap on the 
shoulder by the high sheriff, reminding her of the non-payment of her debt. 
She then deputed one of the most trusty, and shrewd of her family, to pur- 
chase state securities, and sat'afy the execution. He, who performed this 
business deemed his own personal responsibility, and risk in the affair, wor- 
thy of liberal reimbursement, and graduated his demand accordingly. This 
was considered exorbitant, and payment refused. Another lawsuit was the 
consequence. The dispute, after much wrangling and severe reproaches 
from both sides, was finally adjusted, by a mutual reference, at a town mee- 
ting, convened for that purpose. Frost had received 1793, March 14th 
£ 55, 15*. 3d. The following was the tenor of the receipt on their final 
settlement, 

Framingham, March 14th, 1798 — Received of &c. dollars 

in full of all demands of every description whatever from the beginning of 
the world to this date. Signed, &c. 

This was given by both parties. 

At the time of Shays insurrection, this town acted with spirit. The young 
men, more than were wanted, volunteered under Lincoln, in the dead of 
Winter, to go forward, and convince the deluded insurgents of their folly. 
The older, more experienced, and wealthy remained, as a corps de reserve ; 
and a large body ofthem actually proceeded as far as Worcester, to enforce 
obedience to the goverment of their choice. There they learned the rebels 
were dispersed, without a chance of ever again rallying, and re-assembling. 
They therefore quietly returned to the calm delights of a winter's fireside. 
When Washington put these states in defensive array against foreign 
threats and actual aggression, aided and supported by those veterans, 
IJamilton and Pickering. We had such confidence in the National Cabi- 
net ; that our quota of minute men was without exertion procured by vol- 
untary enlistment. 

Subsequently, when our National Cabinet was swayed by variant, not to 
sav discordant counsels, and all intercourse with restless, turbulent, revolu- 
tionary France, was interdicted, the measure was considered, not only ju- 
dicious, but unavoidably necessary. 

When the decree went forth, that all the land should be taxed, this town 
cheerfully submitted to the measure, though deeming it both impolitic, and 
injudicious. Impolitic, because British authorities only, on finance, appear- 
ed to have been consulted. The depressed state of our funds had not then 
been indulged with time enough for their being recruited. A jealousy too, 
by the land tax, was excited between the state authorities and the general 
government. 

Gen. A. Hamilton's Oxford army was not a favorite here. This town fur- 
nished not an individual, either officer or private. 

We will now jlean a few less interesting transactions from the foregoing 



49 

period, and, n? of mo«t importnncr, fir't exr^niinc the concern manifested in 
the measures adopted for the instruction of youth, and the general promo- 
tion of knowledge. 

In 179'2, a number of liberal minded, and public spirited persons, were 
associated to e^t:lblish an Academy. 

This institution, as generally happens (o novelties, at first flourished, then, 
depending solely on private patronai^e, languished till 1790, when the town 
having received much betullt from the establishment, in town-meeting, 
passed the followins; vote: — We will give the Academy one thousand dol- 
Jars, or the inttrest thtreof, provided the proprietors will ensure our exemp- 
tion from maintaininij a grammar school, and also whal, they have insinua- 
ted, has been offered them, obtain a grtrnt from the state legislature of half 
a township of Eastern land, as an unalienable, and consequently permanent 
support of the school. The in'titution was immediately after endowed with 
the aforesaid land, and incorporated. It has since flourished. 

The good citizen" here, convened in town meeting in 1798, finding no- 
thing of greater consequence, for their attention, condescended to legislate 
on crows, squirrels, anil black-birds. The scalps of old crows were receiv- 
ed at 25 cts. each, and 30'irig one? at half price. Squirrels and black-birds 
each were entitled til the premium of ^ a cent. This bounty was, at the 
end of three years, discontinued under the plea, that the old crows were 
too cautious to be caught, the young ones too much secreted to be found, the 
cats only merited a reward for the destruction of squirrels, and the black- 
birds, surnamed red winged, though a railing accusation had been brought 
against them, wire never fniiiid guilty of an overt act. In addition to this, 
it was strongly urged, that (he rising generation would not be vastly edified 
in their respective callings, if encouraged here (savage-like) to range the 
woods in search of game, instead of vigorously plying the hammer and 
sledge, dexterously managing the mallet and chissel, with various other 
tools in their respective shops ; and in the field skillfully guiding the plough 
and handling the hoe. These latter occupations, it was said, dilligently 
attended to, produced habits of indu'^try, economy, frugality, and honesty. 
These habits also, it was afllrmed, necessarily ensured the comforts and con- 
veniencies of life. W here;is, h^, who in childhood, contracted an attach- 
ment to the angling rod, and fowling piece, always became indolent, often 
dissipated, sometimes grossly vicious, and from the nature of his employ- 
ment, necessarily poor. 

We will now cast an eye on that glnriou«ly uncertain science, the I<aw ; 
that vastly deep morrass whence, if any one be therein plunged, he can 
never come out otherwise than naked. To change our fare and borrow a 
metaphor from the v< eelable kingdom, that Bohon Upas which createi a 
desert around ; it permitted no plant to flourish, no not even to live in its 
neighborhood. 

To ascend in the scale of our indignation, as practised in this country, it 
is the Turkish despot, who will suffer neither relation, nor friend around 
him, through fear of his '■haring his own power and happiness. 



50 

In confirmation of the above, we ask if most offices of trust, honor, and 
profit are not rapidly falling in the bauds of th^se engrossers ? We would, 
furthermore, respectfully inquire, if (he most weighty portion of our legisla- 
ture should consist of lawyers, there would not be danger of their acts being 
so drafted, worded, or in some way ambiguously expressed, as to originate 
innumerable, and interminabje suits We fraukly acknowledge ourselves 
under no very affcctionute obligations to lawyers, nor to their humble coad- 
jutors, and obsequious friends, sheriffs, and baliifs. By all we have said of 
Law, we mean Lawyers. 

But we return from our discussive range, to what concerns this town on 
ly. Alas ! where are those simple, honest, happy days, when every man 
was his own lawyer ? 

They existed here till 1791. Before which period of time, no lawyer 
litigator, correctly expressed, exciter of litigation, could find rest to his 
feet in Franiingham. Then, alas ! for we must sigh at our misfortunes, an 
adventurer arrived. 

Pomposus Bombasticus settled here under favorable auspices. His public 
education was the best, which this country could, at the time afford ; but 
come too late, to remove the impressions of early life ; those rusticities con- 
tracted in the field, in the hovel, the stable, and the stye. Accordingly 
his manners, though affectedly polite, were grossly vulgar. Horace's "Tes- 
ta quo semel imbuta odorem dire sen a bit was in him forcibly illustrated- 
When he labored to ingratiate himself with a man of property and influence, 
you were irresistably reminded of the fable of the ass and the spaniel, where 
the ass observing the caresses bestowed by their master on the spaniel, es- 
sayed an imitation of the blandishments of the latter, and as a reward of his 
folly received a severe cudgelling. 

But, accurately to deliniate his manners, we must first survey his person. 
This was, what geometricians would call an irregular figure or body. It 
was certainly lofty, and if we maybe indulged in the language, which he 
delighted to honor, exceeded both in latitude and longitude, the medium 
stature. But, to use anitomical language, the different limbs, or members 
were so loosely articulated, as ensured neither elasticity nor firmness. In 
plain language, he was clumsily made. His countenance, in early life, wa« 
dark, in his latter days, its hue was purple. The nose on most faces, is the 
most projecting feature ; but in the present instance, dame nature, either 
being in a frolicsome mood, in trying one of her droll experiments, made his 
eyes the most promiment. They were, however, not exactly lobster-like. 
They more resembled the eyes of Cacus when strangled by Hercules. They 
were denominated by the brethren of the bar, the eyes of the county. They 
were accommodated with no muscles that enabled him to take laterial ob- 
servations ; and were calculated to see distant objects only and directly 
forward. Accordingly when he entered any apartment, crowded with his 
acquaintance and friends, in real tortoise style, sprawled and pawed, and 
scrambled forward, thrusting aside ail intervening objects, whether father 
or mother, maid or matron, till he had arrived at the object of his destination 



51 

Here he in riimbline; low bass announted liis important business. He was 
remarkably Injifiy in hi? manner of telling a story. For he always prtfaced 
it with a hearty lior«e-lauph ; which was exc(;edin?ly kind, saving his hear- 
ers the pain of that convulsive, side bursting affection. However, some, un- 
doubtedly from envy of his pleasing talent, laughed, not at his story, but at 
himself. 

In his walks abroad, he was remarkably upright, so much as to give oc- 
casion to the wicked to say, he was stiff necked. Pedantic ignorrmt anat- 
omists asuerted, that his cervical and dorsal flexors, fr('m long disuse, had be- 
come perfectly uself ss. 

He sustained cnaiiy honcTable offices in (his town, but never attained to 
the first. He gave <:atis(i.'ti.'ii in most, and was undoubtedly useful. His 
jittle bark was, at last, wrecked on quicksat ds, he little dreamt of. All 
offices of honor, hr fagerlj- sought; but to support them, those of profit were 
indispensable. Finding the affairs of state to yield hiiu less than a subsistence 
he very piously turned his eyes on the Gospel. He courted and accepted 
the office o[ tythingman. Like good old David, he well might say, "the 
zeal of thine house halh eaten me up." For when he met the Saints, in 
worslii[> of their Maker instead of adjoinin;; in fervent aspirations for love 
and good will to all men. he peered through the churcli windows, in search 
of some belated and wayworn traveller, dilligently and perseveringly strug- 
gling to return to a dependant, destitute family. In great wrath he issued 
from the house of worship, and, indignantly assailed the peaceable, quiet 
and in every respect, unoffending traveller. He received his fee, and re- 
turned to his post, to react the farce. 

This conduct gave dissatisfaction to all reflecting minds. The calm and 
deliberated queried as follows : Is it worshipping God, to repair to his 
courts not to hear the mild, peaceable precepts of a Redeemer; but to des- 
poil and rob a fellow croature ; not to hearken to a public confession of 
sins, with an earnest supplication for their remission ; but to listen for the 
distant rumbling of wheels. Which, said they, causes most disturbance in 
a worshipping assembly, the peaceable passage of a carriage, or the wrath- 
ful rushing forth of a tything-man ? I'hey further more respectfully asked if 
all exclusive privileges wtre not expressly bared by our constitution; 
whether the rights of conscience were secured to every one. If so, why 
was not the deist equally protected by law, with the christian. 

When he seized the embarrased culprit, his cry was not, "the bond, the 
bond ;" but *'the law, the law." His enemies said his meaning was "the 
Jine^ the/ne," '4he/e«, the/ee." But whatever his motives, the result to 
him was mournful, loss of popularity, loss of business, and the natural con- 
sequence, (lif acquirement of ba<l habits. "Othelo's occupation was gone,'» 
and with it departed every thing honourable, and every thing useful. He 
languished a few years, and sunk into the grave. 

Having mourned over his foibles and frailties, let us now turn to his vir- 
tues. Here we find an txc.ediiigly affectionate, and indulgent father; an 



52 

accommodating neighbor, and in the days of his prosperity quite a sociable 
compiiuion. As a townsman public spirited, and highly useiul. 

He is gone, and we tread not on his ashes, lest our garments might be in- 
flamed, by some lurking spark, beneath the embers. 
"Nil de mortuis, nisi conum,"" ever be our motto. 

When he descended into the tomb, those pieces of ordnance, which he 
introduced into the town, and for the exercise of which, he organized and 
disciplined one of the hardiest looking companies in the state, whispered a 
requiem to his departed spirit. 

We have been thus particular in our account of the foregoing character, 
because, though his life be not exactly ideiidified with the history of this 
place, yet, during his residence here, was very closely connected. 

During the wane of the above luminary, two planets moving in similar 
orbits, arose in our hemisphere ; whom we will now describe under the 
names of Astutus and Buccinator. 

Here we must assume a new motto and take for our guide and regulator 
" Nil de vivis, nisi caute." 

Astutus presented you a figure of common statue, duly proportioned, and 
gracefully formed ; not however athletic, nor even muscular, rather ap- 
proaching the emaciated. His complexion was what, on a female face, 
would be termed brunette. Rt gular beneath a dark and frowning brow, 
deeply seated, not sunken, shined, notblaaed forth, two orbs of steady light. 
When the passions sleep, in other words when the countenance is not light- 
ed up by some aflfection or emotion, you could discover only a deeply pen- 
etrating glance, a steadily scrutinizing look, that gave assurance of 
rough examination. But when anger agitated the system, when wrath 
snatched the sceptre from reason, you would see flashes of lightning, 
which if supported by physical force, would be truly terrible. 

So much for his person. Now let us distantly and cautiously survey his 
manners ; for a close exaraination would be dangerous, he being very jeal- 
ous of his rights and immunities. 

Born and educated in a genteel family, he could not otherwise, than in- 
herit those delicate deferences, and condescentions, which constitute po- 
liteness. But this part of his patrimony he very economically husbanded, 
making no expenditure, that could be avoided. Nature endowed him with 
mental powers rather above mediocrity ; and his education, in an exten- 
sive sense of the word, liberal- In wit too, his resources seemed inex- 
haustible. This wit also, was of that inoffensive pleasant kind, which is 
rather sportive, or playful, than pointedly satirical. In humour he abound- 
ed, humour chaste, iind pure, seldom degenerating into buffoonry, never 
ipto obscenity. 

What then, forbids our speaking in unqualified praise of this sociable, 

and highly entertaining character. 

Alas ! said his enemies ; and, as in all courts of justice, both parties are 
heard ; aad we having attentively and patiently listened to his friends, his 



53 

enemies will now be indulged with a short hearinc^. Alas I said they, his 
v;ist earners ot wheat are so encumbered with chair, that, by a supfrticial 
observer, the jjrain is overlooked. 'I'he coruscations of his wit are some- 
tiiues obscured by dense clouds, and the gently flowin-j current of his hu- 
mor is often shrouded with mists and fofgs. What they intend, bv this 
soaring figurative flight, we are at a loss to say unless they alude to his un- 
bounded /erjVji/. 

His heart, said they, was of that inexorable cast, that, if once offended, 
he would never be reconciled. In the language of Shylock, he nev- 
er caught an adversary on the hip, without striving to break all his hones, 
but was not satisfied with the pound of flesh, insisting, that to him belong- 
ed the whole carcase. 

IJe has been accused of being a money-broker — more correctly a Jew's 
agent, to procure a market for unemployed capital, at an exorbitant rate of 
nsury. In plain language, a gull catcher. In the spirit of real can- 
dor, we pronounce this a slanderous report, having no doubt of its beiug 
false and malicious. For we cannot believe he ever had credit sufllcient 
for even so humiliating a commission. 

A few days subsequent to his having been very actively encased in strip- 
ing a neighbor of his worldly substance, and despoiling him of his gin)d 
name ; we have i een told an unsealed letter was found in the public Coffee 
House, couched in language nearly as follows: 

Beloftd Jiend and agent. 

Accept our hearty congratulation on the success of our last plot. 
Thou hast succeeded in accomplishing our wishes to admiration. Thou 
hast produced, in the town, placed under thy care, a perfect turmoil. — 
Neighbor is at variance with neighbor; and brother hates brother. All 
confidence is destroyed. " Heaven weeps and Hell laughs with exceeding 
great joy."' There's not a spirit of real address and intelligence 
here, who is not importunately soliciting an embassy to thy region. 

Few are there, however, even in Hell, in whom we place half the confi- 
dence, we repose in thy beloved self. 

Go on and prosper. We wish thee Devils speed. Remember, the wi- 
dow's sigh, and the orphan's tear will fatten thee. Our dear fiend I do not 
relent ; remembering that should all animosities, contentions, and conse- 
quent distress cease, "thine occupation is gone ;" thou might poasibli/ be- 
come an honest man ; which every infernal power forbid I 

Remember, that, as our vast regions are peopled, by the depravity of 
man ; so the lawyer's coffers are filled by his misfortunes and distress. Re- 
lent not. Compassion is only female weakness, childish folly. — Relent not. 
Iq due time, thou shalt be removed hither, and receive a just recompense. 
At present we cannot dispense with thine all important labors above. 

Given at our August I'alace, the Temple o( Darkness and Delusion. 
This 1st day of the .'>J month of the 70U0 year of our Reiijn. 

SATAN. 



54 

As a specimen of of his pleading, from memory, we adduce the following. 
He was viudicafin^ his profession against the charge of extortion, and op- 
pression. God, "^did he, made one creature for the sustenance or support 
of another. "For the eagle, hawk, /ic. he created smaller birds, without 
means of defence. For the spider, he produced aii innumerable swarm of 
fli^s. But, for the amusement and support of the lawyer, he has provided 
a VHriety of fools." 

Buccinator in person, resembled the preceding. His talents were respect- 
able : and his education g jod, but in some points rather defective. His 
mind is probihly better calculated for accurate discrimination, than pro- 
found research ; in other words, has less of solidity than of accumen. 

j>s a specimen of his forensic powers, take the following learned dis- 
quisition. 

Gentlemen, we are all liable to error of judgment ; biit never more so, 
than in cases, where strong resemblance is blended with latent, yet strik- 
ing difference. This hair, a? you will consider it, which I hold out to your 
view, is not a real hair ; His only a half-hair, in other words, part of a hair, 
that has been spiit, or nicely divided from one end to the other. Which 
end, too, was originally inserted in the skin, is a moot point ; but at a 
glance, discovered by the eye of the naturalist. 

Lawyers, also, my highly respected, and much beloved brethren, of this 
profoundly learned Bar, you are thoroughly sensible, are considered, by 
the obtuse brain of the vulgar mass of society, as mosl virulently contend- 
ing, and madly striving to put down each other. When, in reality, no lit- 
ter of kittens, could play together more harmoniously. Then threats and 
potries with foils, every discerning eye would say, were intended to qualify 
then for taking under their charge the government of the world. 

Another vile aspersion, permit me indignantly to repel. Lawyers are 
slanderously reported to be the disturbers of the peace of society ; the 
abetters of every thing calculated to promote discord and confusion. If 
true it ought to be known. Who believeth it ? If any, why such increased 
resort to the lawyer's office ? Do not we go forward and assume all respon- 
sibility ^ Do not we kindly take away the bone of contention from the con- 
tending parties ? We take all the property, and then there is peace, we 
seize all the munitions of war, and hostilities cease. 

Now quitting law, as we hope forever, we will return and take divinity 
by the hand, and gently leading her, through those ways of religious wis- 
dom, which are pronounced by Heaven, to he "ways of pleasantness, and 
whose paths are paths of peace," bring her down to the present day. 

After settling the Rev. David, now Dr. Kellogg, the congregational 
church here for many years, went forward in a straight, plain course, of 
what they believed christian duty. All effervesent fermenting matter wat 
voluntarily transfered toother laboratories, where refined spirits were pro- 
duced, where alone the ardent was exhibited. 

By the seceders, they were considered, to use their language, proceeding 



55 

lleftvenward, only at a John trot pace; or rather like fiphes, headed vrp 
stream, by a gentle motion of their (ins, preserving themselves stationaiy- 
Under this impresjion, they thus addre^sed them. 

'•Ye need a spur to luend your lagging pace," 
and received in answer, 

'••Ye need a rein to clieck your furious race." 

The Rev. pastor of tlie congrtgaiional church preserited you a figure of 
conimon stature, well proportioned, and when young was considered hand- 
some. Ilia manners were frank, easy and graceful. He was endowed with 
vigorous intellect, combined witii quickness of ptrception ; which, proba- 
bly occasioned his being rather a truant to the muses, durinpf early life. 
The mention of an algebraic problem always occasioned a shrug of the 
jhouiders, for he exceedingly disliked mathematical deiuonsf ration. He in- 
dulged no very warm affection for metaphysical subtL'tie> ; believing that 
the path of [)luin logical discussion, alone led to practicjl. useml truth In 
Lis intercourse with his neighbors, and paris-h generally, he w is affable and 
courteous. In hi? own lijuse, he was remarkably tiospitable, soCiabie, and 
every way polite. 

In early life, his religious sentiments were moderately oithodox, and his 
BoaLner, of explaining and inculrnling them, was calm and deliberate, 
rather, than earnest, and impressive. In his 'atter days, be has become 
decidedly, strenuously, yea, tl-iijiingly L alviuistic. 

The liumber of comuiunicaats )i; his church, at the time of his settling 
here, was small, now 1827, the nmn'jfcr is about loO. The church re-^ 
mained without great audition of professors, til! the incorporation of the 
Baptist society. Then an emulation was excited between the two sects ; 
the leader of each strivmg, which should be most active, vigilunt and dili- 
gent in his calling. The ^e^ult was mutually beneficial. 

In IIjUO, the Congregational society vot-d ^700 to repair their meeting 
house, and after expen<:ing part of the monej, the next year, in town meet- 
ing, reconsidered and nulilied their past vole. 

In lyui, the exertion to place a 6e[)ulchral remembrance over the grave 
of their late minister, M. B. was renewed. The following committee of 
good men, and true, were appointed to investigate the subject, and report 
at a future meeting;— 

Alaj L. Buckujinster, Col. D. Brewer, and Capt. S. Frost. What re- 
port the men made, if any, the town records say not. 

At'ter considerable altercation, the town settled on a scite for the loca- 
tion of a npw meetinjj-hoiise. 

This Wat) constructed in l!J07, and formed in modern style, sixty-five 
feel square, with a spacious porch in iront, whence ascended two flight of 
stairs, to tlic gallery, consisting of one tier only. This |«oich was suruiiuiit- 
ed by what, we know not how express, unless we denominate it a little 
fruttrum of a small town. Above this, in due symttry, appeared a bcllry 
and lantern. Here, either taste was absent, iu the original draught, or the 



56 

architect was fatigued and negligent, or the fund? were exhausted. At any 
rate, the poor little *pindle, alias steeple, though directed toward the Hea- 
vens, seemed to hesitate about half way. To speak technically we must 
say this was diminutively disproportionate to all its supporters beneath. A 
little of the Gothic was mingled, not united, with Grecian Architecture, in 
the structure. It, however, has been the receptacle of many penitential 
confessions, and, we hope, of much real religion. 

Whatever may be the truth, in the language of Christian Divines a re- 
markable revival evidently followed its erection. 

The Baptists had during the above period, so dwindled, as, by this time, 
to be nearly extinct. The old leaven, however, remained ; there was a 
germ destined to sprout forth, and become a great tree. 

All they wanted was an intelligent enterprising leader. This they found 
in their present pastor. Rev. C. Train ; who justly claims the merit, of 
gently blowing the nearly extinguished embers into a moderate and steady 
flame ; and constantly supplying it with proper fuel. 

Though he did not actually raise the dead, yet he created a church. The 
seed, which he sowed, was exceedingly fruitful, in various parts of the town 
and its neighborhood. The gospel was literally preached to the poor ; for 
a large proportion of his hearers, were too poor, to accommodate him with 
sustenance, or worldly support. It was necessary, therefore, that he should 
not only as pastor, feed his flock with the Divine Word, on the Lord's day ; 
but, on the other days of the week, distributed to the lambs literary and 
moral instruction. In this way, he was enabled economically to eke out 
the meager support of an increasing family. 

The house, which we have described as having been a great traveller, at 
the time of his ordination, January 30, 1811, and the societies incorpora<ion 
in 1811, was repaired and finished. In this the Gospel continued to be 
preached till first January, 1827 ; when a very neat and commodious house 
constructed the preceding year, was dedicated. This was situate in the 
centre of this town. For another removal has been deemed necessary, in 
consequence of the extf ntion of the Baptist faith through every section of 
the town. The centre of the town was believed to be most accommodating 
to all within and without the township. 

Old Cassa Sancla was pronounced too old and debilitated to bear anoth- 
er removal. Besides, she was of diminutive stature and of old fashioned, 
and ungenteel form. 

The new house was located about 100 rods S. W. of the congregational 
meeting house. Its dimensions were 55 feet square with a spacious porch ia 
front, and slill further projecting a portico constructed on princifdes, nei- 
ther Grecian nor Gothic. The pillars were crowded together on each side, 
for the sake of better prospect from the doors, entering the porch, leaving 
the centre of the portico unsii(iported. Raising your eyes to the spire above, 
you discover real arotiifectural proportion, but, on the lantern and belfry 
beneath, such a load of ornament, as reminded you of the rough and furbe- 



St 

lows oCgood oKI queen L>e<f, and illy agree with the simplicity and neatness 
of the interior. 

The Reverend gentleman was rather below the common stature, tho' his 
limbs were compactly united, and the contour of his form graceful. His 
mental powers were respect;. ble, his literary acquirements considerable, 
and his manners conciliating — ?o much so, that he has been for j^evera 
years considered by a larje m;.jnrity of the freeholders of this place, as best 
qualified, to reprc sent them in the General Court. 

Last of all among the learned faculties comes the Doctor of Medicine, 
with formal face, and measured step, advancing to the bedside. 

We have observed, that in former days, the business of this profession was 
left almost exclusively in the hands of old women, of one sex or the other. 

In 1791 when we were first favoured with regular explanation, of statutes, 
and the extent and meaning of coninioii law, or immemorial custom ; we 
were also visited by an enferpi i«ing arfien/wre/", figuratively speaking, a very 
fair scion from a celtbrated medical stock. His form, like that ofhis brother 
of the Jaw, was lofty and dignified ; his speech however was neither pomp- 
ous, nor boastful. His voice could be modulated to any strain. With 
the clown, he was rough, as the soil, he was intended to subdue. — 
^Vith the tender maiden his voice softened, like the breath of spring, and 
every word was flattering. But although a great coquette he was a greater 
financier. The -profits of the conversation were always considered. 

Whtn his risible mcscJes weie excited into action, hiseye-lids were so 
nearly closed as to leave only a small crevice on the window of the soul ; 
through which his mind could peer forth, and examine every action and 
passion, of those around him ; while his own emotions were shrouded, and 
inscrutable. Though only a stripling of nineteen, on his arrival here, yet 
possessing great shrewdness, he applied himself to the study of men rather 
than of books, and endeavored to convert every partiality, prejudice, foible, 
frailty, yea peculiarity of every kind, discoverable to his own profit. His 
maxim seemed, so far as possible, " be a man of business, and where leisure 
permitted, a man of speculation." Being a real " semper paratus," like 
good old Paul, he was " instant in season, and out of season." To use a 
little more scripture " where the carcase was, there the raven was also." 
In plain Engliish, where bufiness was, he was sure to be. — For the ido' 
which he worshipped, was formed of gold and silver — the only access to 
this shrine he believed was through a throng of business. 

He remained undisputed master of the field of medical practice more than 
thirty years. In 1822 an adventurer was introduced here, under respecta- 
ble patronage ; but has hitherto made little head way against his aged, and 
crafty opponent. His friends have injured him by excessive praise. How- 
ever, hilt brethren of the (acuity in the vicinity, say, that his modest, and 
unassuming manners, particularly in the sick room, will uitimately insure 
him success. 

Having dispatched (he three learned faculties, let us now take a i^lanee 
at some miscellaneous matters. 



58 

As we are on the subject, we will attempt a few more sketches of eccen- 
Itric biogfraphy. — That of Credulus Pins higeriofus. — This ir.an possessed 
arge fund of natural, sound sense. His judgement on every subject, within 
the scope of his investigation, was always accurate. His imagination was 
lively and vigorous, his fancy excursive yet delicate. Granting these pre- 
niises, it is not surprising, that he was a man of keen wit. But the quali- 
ties of his heart were the most striking. He feared God, even to supersti- 
tion ; and loved his neighbor, to excess. In confirmation of the latter 
quality, we might adduce numerous instances of favours confered, to his 
own injury. We could mention his refusal of compensation for loaned 
property, of various descriptions, his horses and oxen, labouring for neigh- 
bors, when their services were needed at home. Every action evinced his 
believing himself steward not lord of bis heritage. 

Theie is one infirmity to which good men, unconscious of guile them- 
selves, and therefore illy qualified to detect it in others, are peculiarly sub- 
ject. Credulity is always the fruit of an honest unsuspecting heart- Against 
this, sound sense, and repeated experience of fraud, are not even co&we6 se- 
curity. The subject now considered was peculiarly infected with this in- 
firmity. It not only pervaded every transaction of this life; but extended 
to the world of spirits ; that region of faith, and hope, where we all expect, 
ultimately to rest. 

Salan, that crafty prime minister of our Maker and Judge, so particularly 
consulted, and with defTerence treated, in the case of the venerable Job; 
seemed in the present instance, to cherish a like grudge, pique or spite. 
Certain it is, our modern Job believed him very busy in his affairs. Many 
instances might be adduced of his officious interference. We will content 
ourselves with relating a few. Our subject, being a skilful mineralogist, 
discovered a rich vein of silver ore, this the M'icA;erf on« changed into a worth- 
less mass of pyrites. He harrassed him too in his agricultural experiments 
through the agency of his imps, bewitching his farming utensils ; and once 
audaciously, with both hands seized one of his cart wheels by the hub. Bnt the 
pious old man perfectly acquainted with the wiles of his persecutor, seized 
a huge rock, and by a nod intimating silence to the driver, he indignantly 
hurled it against the hub, and crushing the invisible fingers of old Satan 
compelled him to relinquish his hold, and permit the team to proceed, 
without further molestation. Profane, deistical wits, endeavor to account 
for the foregoing, on natural principles. They say, a small pebble was by 
accident, or design, insinuated between the hub and axle, which was 
crumbled by the stone. 

Satan, however, is not easily diverted from any of his projects. Being 
thwarted in bis mischievous attempts abroad he repaired to the shop of the 
pious man, who by trade was a blacksmith, and had constructed much in- 
genious machinery, moved by water, among which was a trip hammer. — 
This the archfiend mounted astride, and alternately, entirely stopping, or 
rendering the motion irregular, and unaccountable. 

By the advice of one deeply versed in magic, he constructed a brass bar- 



59 

rcllecl gun, and by di^chareinef a silver Imllet, from thi^, at his grand adver- 
'ary, instantly rcsfurtd reculiirify of motion tf) his hammer, and wa« siihse- 
i]tiently little iiiinoyed. Yet wiUi this inlirmity few were more sensible, 
none more pious. 

Totratus Pugnator enjoyed the advantages of a figure (all and gracefully 
turned muscular ; but not corpulent ; a pleasantness of countenance, gen- 
erally indi<'a<ing a benevolent heart ; a suavity of speech, always concilia- 
liug, attended with general urbanity of manners. To these natural endow- 
ments, he added by education that cofifi Jent easy address, no where more 
common, than among military officers. 

On the bursting out of our revcdntionary struggle he wn? a student of our 
University at Cambridge. He iiuiuediately quitted the bowers of the riiuses, 
threw a side his pen, took up the sword, and hastened to the field of action, 
in defense of his country's liberty, and other invaded rights. 

After being distinguished as a brave and judicious ofiicer through the war ; 
at the return of peace, he settled in his native town ; engaged in the honor- 
able calling of farmer, and amused himself wilfi narrating the adventures of 
his life, and depicting the wonderful scenes he had witnessed. 

His manner of relating a story was peculiarly attractive, and interesting. 
Nothing was discoverable, in his countenance, or ge<;tures, that indicated 
his ex|>ectation of saying any thing remarkably witty, humorous, or even 
ludicrous. On the contrary, he was exceedingly grave, and deliberate. \ 
faint smile of complacency would occasionally illumine his brow, but noth- 
ing the most distantly approaching to laughter. 

His manner <'f marking his pauses, and the emotions to be excittd was 
likewise peculiar. A copious ejection from the mouth of tobacco juice wa« 
a preface modestly bespeaking attention. In j)roportion the lenglh of the 
pauie, either for breath, or reflection, afterwards was an efTusion of the 
same juice; and when he had concluded, out came quid in jjTOjJia jitrsona, 
for the present discharge from further service. 

His manner.", opportunities and talents ensured him the confidence and 
obtained him the first olFices of trust and profit in the gift of his fellow citi- 
zens. 

By way of contrast with the fcregoing, in every point of character, we 
will now coarsely essay that of Pediculosus. What, the little, important, 
man lacked, by shortness of stature, was made up by loftiness of language. 
He cherished an, apjiarently insuperable, antipathy to labour, and the ex- 
ternal application of water. I he inevitable ton»ei|uence was poverty and 
filth. The little man assumed the title and rank of Colonel. In consider- 
ation of a large host of ptdicuU always attached to his person, and constant- 
ly attending him, never deserting, either by day or night ; this was readily 
conceded ; and he was always addressed or saluted as Col. of the pedicule. 
Our very kind, and intelligent readers may indulge a curiosity, to ascer- 
tain the origin of these little warriors, closely attached to their commander. 
We exceedingly regret our inability to gratify tlum. All we can offer is 



60 

vague report. They are not a tribe of American savage?, though much re- 
sembliniT tli'^Ti in their mode of warf;ire ; bniua;, reni]y, a erenping^ crawU 
ing, skulking race. Whether thej emigrated hither from Europe with our 
pious ancestors, or were the original proprietors of the soil, is an ugly ques- 
tion, for the naturalist, or historian. If the latter, they resembled tiie Ca- 
naanites, " whom Israel could not drive out ; but live with them, even un- 
to this day ." 

Our little man had a little horse. This was not only proper for his com- 
fort, and dignitj', but also indispensible for the di.^charge of his duties, as a 
Jifld officer. Of this spirited little steed, we may truly say, like man, like 
horse. His colour was sorrel with a white face. But his ribs were the 
most conspicuous parts of him, for they might be counted at one mile's dis- 
tance. He patiently shared the fortunes of his master, browsing by day, 
under full assurance, of being turned ioose at night, to forage on the field 
of the poor neighborhood. This created awful feuds, yea intermindable 
war. Oft was our little hero threatened, by some brawny, sun-burnt, 
daughter of Eve, with being hurled, headlong, horse and all, into the near- 
est stream, pond, or ditch. He like the crafty Hannibal, when entrapped, 
could always devise, on the emergency, an expedient to extricate himself 
from danger. 

One instance is sufficiently illustrative of this. On a morning, succeeding 
a very extensive excursion, and great destruction by his faithful Lousy 
Browser ; while contemplating the goodness of his Maker, as he rode thro' 
his neighborhood, in the production of every thing promotive of happiness 
to both man, and beast, without any exertions on the part of the creature, 
with a heart overflowing with gratitude, to find himself thus provided, his 
reverie was suddenly interrupted. His ear was arrested, by an indistinct, 
shrill, angry, threatening sound ; and his eyes were instinctively raised to 
ascertain the cause. A female of lofty stature, and vigourous form, was 
rapidly approaching. The first impulse was flight. But the faithful cour- 
ser had not so been trained. He could neither charge nor retreat. He 
had often maintained his post at the expense of an awful beating. He would 
not budge a step for our hero. Many old saws during this obstinacy oc- 
curred. Who can reason with an angry woman ? Then reflecting on his 
past valorous deeds, chastisement seemed the watchword, uppermost in his 
chivalrous heart, at any rate severe rebuke. But to check and suppress 
his, an adage from Virgil immadiately crossed his brain. 

" nulum memorabile nomen. 

Feominea in poena est, nee habet victoria laudem." 

He was well acquainted with the feats of Virgil's Camilla, and the prow- 
ess of Butler's Trulla. Who would not fear the approach of such amazons? 

By this time the anery figure, wliich had been vociferating destruction 
and death to our knight, had so nearly approached, that he could plainly 
distinguish the following opprobious epithets, from the Wapping and Bill- 
ingsgate vocabulary : " Cursed horse !', " Lousy old rascal I" 

Bcarcfly had Virgil's — " varium & mutabile seniptr Fccniinn," fltshrd 



61 

consolation on liis mind, ere his bridle was seized, and every boHo, of botL 
master and servant, threatened with immediate fracture. 

Fortunately one of Soloraan's best proverbs occurcd to bis memory. " A 
•oft answer tunitth away wrath.'' He accordingly adorned his face with 
his most placid and graceful smiles and addressed the virago, in the follow- 
ing mild, deliberate strain. 

Good woman admitting ti>c statement, 3'ou make, is true, and in every 
particular correct, to what does it amount ? Your garden last night was en- 
tirely destroyed, and not a plant, you say, remains. You further say, the 
destruction was the work of my pony. But will an injury inflicted on me, 
or on my horse, the perpetrator of this foul deed of darkness, restored your 
garden to its former state ? Will it revive a single plant ? If not won't it be 
better to trust my honor, and good feelings, to repay you your loss. Your 
fair face, certainly, exhibits nothing of the revengeful. Every feature in- 
dicates a mi!d, accommodating disposition. Why should you and I quar- 
rel, when we gain nothing ? She relented. He passed on without further 
molestation. Oh! how powerful the address of a man of good sense and 
information on the heart of a delicate woman ? Alas I when relieved from 
one danger or difficulty, how quickly are we replunged ! This was strik- 
ingly the case of our squire. 

Though he could readily parry the cart and tierce of the venerable ma- 
tron, whom he had reluctantly encountered, he found the gentle presure on 
the shoulder by a constable, more difficult to obviate. 

The town instituted a suit against him; and the old maxim, sue a beg- 
gar, Szc. was a thousand fold verrified. See Appendix (/>.) 

A'o/e. — Karly in the spring of 1795, a lodge of ancient York Masons was 
orgain'zed and constituted under the patronage and sanction of tiie Grand 
Lodge of Massachusetts ; denominated Mi<ldlescx Lodge, No. .0. 

The labors of the institution, though for some short intervals rather lan- 
guisi)ing, have been productive of muc!i harmony, good feeling, and infor- 
mation. As a cluster of bees, they had clung together, antHiave been enabled 
to exhibit much honey. For tiie first officers and members, see Appendix (^.) 

In the year 1798, a family by the name of Wheeler removed from Lin- 
coln, and settled here. Being enterprising, industrious, and persevering; 
although at first poor, they soon acquired property, respectability and in- 
fluence ; and have certainly contributed much to the growth and prosperity 
of the place. 

The additions of buildings and increase of business in the centre of the 
town must be highly gratifying to all well wishers o{ ovr improvement. 

Thirty years ago a barn-like meeting-house, designated the centre, in 
c'lHiparilive solitude, having no other associate, for nearly half a mile in 
►•vtry ilirection, than an old hatter's shop, of coeval date. Now that old 
uu'ly building is rejdaced by a modrrn fabric which we have described. 
TIh- niiiiibLr of dwelling houM'b in this half mile ratlins, is now thirty-two, 
and the houses of entertainment two, large, and if we may believe travel- 
I« r«, quite accomruodatiiig, and highly respectable. 

Tiiree stores for vending dry goods and groceries, like Whales cat up the 



62 

small fish, and produce, bj the cheapness of Iheir goods, real, though un- 
expected distress. 

Nine commodious buildings mostly two story, can accommodate about 
three times the number of mechanics. 

Quitting the centre, and ranging toward the borders, we find great im- 
provementf there. 

Proceeding from the S. West down the pleasant stream, that we have 
described, as irrigating, fertilizing and adorning this town, the eye is pro- 
gressively greeted with a variety of manufacturing establishments, whicii at 
the distance of about eighty rods from the eslremsty, you fall in wilh Bige- 
low's Paper Mill. Here yon are delighted with the neatness precision, and 
economy, with which every part of the business is transacted. 

Very gently descending, and nearly in a right or direct line, one mile, 
we arrive at one of the best mill privileges in the place. Here is located 
the Middlesex Cotton Factory ; not exactly in Framingham, the territory 
having been alienated, by jealousy, ambition, possibly fraud. The soil is 
now, however, desirous of returnii g to her first love. 

One mile below we find another still more extensive paper manufactory 
called Shepherd's mills. Here is much water, but rather too nearly ap- 
proaching the horizontal in its descent. 

One mile still lower is another water privilege, but laboring under the 
inconveniences of the preceding, not being able to discharge water fast as 
received. Here is a saw, and grist mill. Floating down the stream, v/e 
pass two indifllerent water privileges ; but no improvement short of four 
miles when we arrive at a grist mill, wilh the three pairs of stones and a 
sawmill- Two miles below is (bund a large woollen factory, denominated 
the Saxon Factory, and enjoying one of tlie finest water privileges in this 
part of the country. 

We have several other mills, on a smaller scale, on streams not peren- 
nial. 

We have three large tanneries, which have eniiched their owners, and 
amply rewarded their industry. 

We have seven other trading houses, beside the three central stores, we 
have mentioned, distributed in the most populous sections of our borders. 

The young women of tins place were among the first in the state to en- 
gage in the Dunstable straw braid. This has enabled those in the humblest 
stations to trick themselves out in all the gewgaws of fasliion ; but injured 
them for the important duties of housewife, and rendered it impossible to 
obtain menial service, without long journeys and frequent discharges. 

The number of inhabitants here for a long series of years was somewhat 
more than a thousand ; but within a short period has risen to about two 
thousand five hundred. The increase has been principally in the centre, 
and the eastern village around the factory, denominated Saxcnville ; where 
great improvements have been made; particularly a very neat, and commo- 
dious Gothic church, raised fur the worship of One God. 

On the rivulet issuing from Natic Pond, more properly called long lake in 



03 

Indian tontriie, is a Co((on Factory, surnamcd Framingham. This has lan- 
guished ami by m uuiractiirins; t- mpyrics been pronounced in a real con- 
suiDptive state. But it has lately raised its head, and we hope will shortly 
spread forth its arms. 

We now crave the indulgence of a word or two, on curiositiei Datur^U 
and artificial. 

The ramparts, like banks of the stream, we have so fondly dwelt on, 
through various parts of its course, are perfectly natural. As the Goose of- 
fered a form for the Dutch Indiaiiian, and the Sw^n a model for the F.iiglish 
man-of-war ; so such natural barriers, probably accoDumodated our primitive 
gineer*wifh these specimens of fort'lication. 

The next curiosity may be considered partly natural, and partly artificial ; 
a numerous tribe of contented old maidf. 

Lastly what must be considered wholly artificial, a large majority of the 
talent, property, and information of the town, firmly in the Unitarian faith, 
weekly listening to the inculations of Trinitarian doctrines. 

Many of the fir>t inhabitants of this town, have beconie extinct, and their 
places supplied by emigrants from other'parts. But tue descendants of the 
Batons and Rices are numerous and respectable. The Belknaps, also, have 
from the beginning been active and intelligent. 

We discover nothing peculiar in the manners and customs of this town, 
except an excess of that caution, characteristic of the Eastern States, which 
always evades a direct answer to any question. 

In other places men cften imagine, fancy, and even believe, sometimes 
think, and frequently venture to assert. Here no one hazards his veracity, 
by such expretbions ; but always gwsics. 



m 



I 



I 



APPENDIX. 



<a.) John viii. S, 4. Joliii v. 19, 20. Respeclin-^' the 7th verse of the 5tU 
chapter of -St. John's circular letter, we will luirely say, waving the charge 
^)( interpolation; we would inodtjstly inquire, before what tnbunal.,will three 
infinite Beings, or leguily expressed Perstms, each entitled to the control of 
& universe, deign to testify or bear witness, who is the Judge ? If all pow- 
er were comntitted to Christ, he could not inherently possess it. 

(t.) Microscopic examination has exhibited to our astonished eye won- 
ders, otherwise by us inconceivable. The loiue andyfea are probably not 
less annoyed hy vermin, than ourselves. 

(e.) Antiquarians assure us, this was the temple of Belus in Babylon, OQ 
the apex of which was placed his Colossal statue formed entirely of gold ; 
bft'ore which Nebuchadnezzar orilered all nations, tongues, Sic. to fall dowu 
and worship. 

(rf.) Both virtue and vice are multiplied by a condensation of population, 
fiut great cities, in the language of Jefferson, are great sores. 

(e.) Corn in Europe designates every species of farrinaceous grain, used 
in the formation of bread. 

(/.) Of old women we ought, on all occaaionp, to speak well. They, from 
experience, better tlian all others, know our pains, and better know th« 
remedy. Having themselves severely suffered, sympathy will not permit 
them to be otherwise, than compassionate Otherg may coolly and ikil- 
fully advise, they affectionately attend, and apply. 

(A.) Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, says Holy Writ. 
But in the present degenerate days, multitudes are ready to perish, be- 
cause they take too much medicine. 

Drunkenness was cured by drowning a make in spirit, and drinking the 
broth. 

Consumption was cured, by digging up a dead relative, who had perished 
with the same disorder ; the burning, and reducing to ashes his ulcerated 
lungs, and infusing those in some mild liquid, and to be daily taken whilt 
fasting. 

(i.) List of those, vrho were distinguished in the Lexington and Concord 
skirmish. 

We said the Nixons were not there, which was incorrect. The fact it 
they headed the first Regiment of Massachusetts Militia, the first, as Col. 
and Thomas, the most energetic character, a« Lt. Col. marched from thif 
neighborhood ; and were no less distinguished there than in sabi«i(ueat M* 



65 

tions, particularly when "Nixon's Brigade," to quote from the page of his- 
tory, "had the post of honor assigned it." 

Daniel Hemenway was the only man seriously wounded in the above 
skirmish. 

In addition to the foregoing, Noah Eaton, and Ebeneaer Hemenway were 
distinguished. The former by taking a prisoner alire with all his accoutre- 
ments, not forgetting a load d musket. The latter by killing, and despoil- 
ing an enemy. 

Lawson Buckminster, we have been informed, was in the front of the bat- 
tle. If not, we are positive he must, at the time have been lame. 

Many others were there, who faithfully performed their duty, but time 
has so blurred their names, that we cannot now read them. 

List of those from this town, who were distinguished at the Battle of 
Bunker Hill. 

The two Nixons, John and Thomas, commanding the first Regiment of 
Massachusetts Militia, the first undoubtedly brave, the second, always con- 
sidered equally brave, and generally thought to be more prudent, were 
there, and if not killed, not their fault. 

They were stationed on the left flank of the temporary battery, defended 
by nothing, but rail fence and hay, and constantly raked by a British man- 
of-war. 

This station, therefore, being the most dangerous, was of course the post 
of honor. 

John was sorely wounded, and, in consideration of his experience and 
service, was commissioned, as a general officer in the U. States service. 

His Brigade had the post of honor on the plains of Saratoga, and were 
much galled ; his brother, however, was the most exposed, and had a horse 
shot under him, without being in the least alarmed. 

Lieut, shortly after Capt. Jonathan Maynard ; also two of his brothers, 
subsequently promoted, were distinguished ; the two latter severely woun- 
ded. William carrying a bullet in his hip to his grave. 

Gorman Fairbanks was the only one killed within the ramparts. The 
"wounded were the two Maynards, Henry Gates, Moses Learned, Benjamin 
Clark, Charles Daugherty, slightly, but his coat dreadfully perforated with 
bullets. 'Moses Pike was killed by a cannon ball on the retreat. The 
others who retreated alba parma, were Cept. Thomas Drury, Joseph 
Mixer, Ensign, Joseph Nichols, Noah Eager, John Trowbridge, Abijah Ab- 
bot, Amos Gates, Windsor Stone, J. Nichols, 2d. Needham Maynard, Joshua 
Fairbanks, Blayney Grusha, Saml. Ardway, Brigham Eaton, Luther Eaton, 
Josiah Wait, Elisha Frost, Cornelius Claflin, himself not wounded, but his 
musket rendered unfit for service, by a bullet. 

Lieut. Cols. Wm. Buckminster, and David Brewer, though born and 
raised here, hailed from different places. They were on the hill, and the 
first severely wounded ; and the second, if not, not became he did not show 
his teeth to the enemy. 

In the Continental line, where men took their lives in their hands, firmly 



66 

and inflexibly resolved to lay them on the altar of death, if required, but 

certainly to seize a niche in the temple of liberty, we find the following 
names : — 

Gen. John Nixon, I subalterns and lieitenA5TI. . 

Col. Thomas Nixon, | 

Capt. Jona. Maynard, j John Maynard, 

Do. Wm. Maynard, | Charles Daugherty, 

Do. PamutI F>osf, I Micah Daugherty, 

Do. Peter Clayes, I Luther Trowbridge, 

Do. Elijah Clayes. | Saml. Fairbanks. 

irONCOMISSIOSED OrFICERS AND PRIVATEi. 

Joseph Howe, I Thos. Nixon, Jr. 

Ijaac Howe, | Joseph Nixon, 

tjimon Howe, | David Drury, 

Jona. Cleason, | John Park, 

J. Hemenway, I Thaddeus Hemenway, 

John Jjtacy, | Abel Benson, 

Nalhl. Pratt, j Cato Hart, 

Fphruiin Pratt, | Lphraim Newtoo. 

Johu Pratt, j 

{m) David Haven, belonging to Nixon's Brigade, was killed in the ad- 
vanced guard, having vohinteered to go forward and provoke the enemy to 
action, on the most bloody day, we experienced at Saratoga. John Hol- 
brook died in the Hospital. Josiah Temple carried to his grave, an hon- 
orable tokeu of jjis patriotism, a bullet, received at Cambridge. 

(n.) Capt. Samuel Frost is differently represented by the different feel- 
ings and views of those, who depict his character. All accord him hand- 
some talents ; but some would strip him of his honesty. We individually 
have discovered nothing impugning his integrity. The first members of the 
Masonic Lodge, were as follows: — Jonathan Maynard, Grand Master; 
Peter Clayes, Senior Warden; Barzilla Banister, Jr. Warden. Members, 
Thos. Nixon ; Samuel Frost ; Jno. Nixon ; Aaron Brown ; Gilbert Mar- 
shall, Tyler; Benj. Champney ; Thos. Bucklin ; Wiuslow Corbet; Saml. 
Uavcn. 



ip.) Framingham, July 22(f, 1788. 

Sir — You will please to put one of the largest notes against Simon 
Pratt in suit, as soon as convenient ; and attach the horse he has in posses- 
sion. And also to direct one of the collectors, who has taxes against hioi, 
to take his body. 

JONA. HALE. ) 
SAML. FROST, for/ 
JOHN FISK, \Sdtctmerx. 

JOHN EAMLS, ) 
M. EcNT, JR. TrtasurcT. 



67 



(Z.) Framingham, February^ ye 13///, llli, 

A RETURN OF CAPT. NIXOn's COMPANY OF MINUTE MEN. 



N'. troiniiissioned 



Ser^i-. .* .(' G:eason, 
Do. Sliubel Seaver, 
Do. Jona. Hill, 
Do. Thoe. Buckminater, 

Tifers, Thos. Nixon, jr. 



Thom:is Nixon, Capt. 



■Vlicnh Gleason, 1st Lii^uu 
Jno. Eames 2d do. 

Sxml. Gleasnn, Ensisn, 
Ebcneier Hemeiiwa), Clerk. 



Corporals ami Musicians. 



Corporals, Alplieus Nichols, 
Do. Gidton Rider, 
Do. Asa Nur-!C, 
Do. Eheii. Winch, 

Isaac Hemenway, drummer. 



Jona. AdaroSf 
Badger brown, 
Jn'.>. Kent, 
E?.ra Belcher, 
Daniel Bridge, 
Joseph Belcner, 
Audrcw Brown, 
Jos. Brown, 
Feter Clayes, 
Ahel Childs, 
Charles DaughertJ', 
Micah Daugherlj, 
Eiisha Drury, 
Aaron Eanies, 
Ebeneier Eamfls, 



PRIVATES. 

Moses Eames, 
Nathaniel Eaines, 
.Tno. Farrar, 
.losh. Farrar, 
Moses Fish, 
William Farrar, 
.Tacob F.,ijbanks, 
Jona. Hemenway> 
Jno. Uemenway, 
Nathan Hemenway, 
Parley Howe, 
Francis Howe, 
.loseph Howe, jr. 
Simon Howe, 
Saml. JoniB, 



Needbam IMaynard 
Joseph Nichols, 3d, 
Fortunate Nichols, 
Jno Nurse, 
David Rice, Jr. 
Jcsii. .Sever, 
Samuel Stone, jr. . 
Josh. Tower, 
Jona. Temple, 
Josiah Wail, 
David Wai^ht, 
Axarih. Walker, 
Joseph Winch, 
Bara. Waitht. 



Captain 1 — Lieiits. 1 — Ensign 2 — Clerk 1— Sergeant.s 4 — Corporals 4 — 
Drummers and Fifers 2 — Privates 45 — Total, Officers included 60. 

Sir — The above is a true statement of my Company as they now stand. 
I am Sir, your Humble Servant, 

THOiVJAS NIXON. 

Col. BAiiiiARD, in Sberborn. 

A Muster Roll of Simon Ef:els'' Company is no where to be found. Time 
the consumer of all things, has destroyed it. 

March 1773. — At an adjourned meeting from the 1st to the 13th March 
1773. The Committee chosen to take into consideration, the subject of 
British aggressions, consisting of Deacon William Brown, Major Jno. Far- 
rar, Jos. Buckminster, Esq. Dr. Eben. Hemenway, Joseph Nichols, Josiah 
Slone, and Mr. Eben. Marshall, presented the following Report : — 

That whereas late Parliamentary measures have been exerci.sed towards 
this pfovince, in manner so irreconcileable, with what we have till witliin 
these few years past felt ; it seems really necessary, that not only the legis- 
lative, )jut constituent part of the Province, stand forth in defence of their 
liberties ; apd to all, who regularly, in either capacity, make this noble 
stand, we jiold ourselves obliged. — That our forefathers left tlieir native 
country and came over into this then vast howling wilderness, wading 
through such troubles and difficulties, as could only be felt, never properly 
expressed, with just expectation, that not only themselves, but their pos- 
terity, should enjoy their privileges, both Religious and Civil, we think 
none can deny. That a charier has been given to this Province, whereby 
we are entitled to all the privileges of native Ute born Sons of England, 
none will dispute. That Life, Liberty and Property, with the whole right 
of disposal is in our said cbarttr, we think equally plain. 'J hen if we are 



6» 

u .V. ,.A iii.t-.rv rvnd our Conrtitution make u« free. For tM 
l„lf ren, both eacrf d Hi>t->ry, rvna our v. nicuo^al of 

Meiul 10 defend ti.ese Province., » equallj true. 

That, whoever cut. the cords, that cement the Colon.es to the Br.t..h 
Crown, are enemies to both, i. a Fad, that does not admit of a d.spu «. 

Th as a Province we have forfeited our pr.Tikge, none ever pnUnded. 
-i ha th are Laded, who c.n with Justice deny.-Theu the Br.Ush Par- 
;:;::.'; ;.me the ..wer of legislation for the Colonic, without he.r con 
«.„t Ana exert (hat power in ra,.ing a revenue, and applying it to pur 
pose; repugnant to our pr.v.leges, as a free people ; by making our pr.nc.- 
pal officers !t the head of our legislative and executive affair, so depen en 
on the Crown, that the usual balance of Government .s m danger 

hfinir eiitirelv destroyed. , . • 4 

Zl,u.Uur.oJ.onsfrate,arernrad.d. We need only to look .nto a 

la.e act o. I'.rl.ament, Lnti.ied an act the better to preserve hi. M^e^y s 
Dock Yards, Lc. and that the Colonies are included m this act. W .toess 
the lale Honorable CouiUiittee sent to Rhode Island. .... ,. 

,Now if our inhabitants may be seized, and denied their privilege o 
being judged by their own Peers, in the vicinity to which they belong but 
on a suspicion of their being guilty of said act, may be carried to England, 
and there to be tried for life, gnU'y or not ; Oh ! • we hud need be possess- 
ed of estates much greater, than are generally found in America, not to be 
ruiuccd to perfect beggary and ruin. „ . , 

And why but to protect these ministerial measures, r.re fleets and armies 
sent and kept among us in time of profound peace ? ^ ,. ^ ^ , 

And whether these measures are not oppressive, let the English Annals 
determine, if they be, he that run., may read the natural operation. From 
all which itappears our absolute duty to defend in every constitutional 
niea-ure, our .'.cr privileges purchased with so much blood and treasure, 
Ut us prudently endeavour to preserve our character, as Freemen, and not 
lo^e that of a Good and Loyal Subject, let us jointly Labour after (and Hea- 
ven grant we may obtain) that magnanimity of Soul ; by which we may be 
enabled to resent injuries, and let the world know, that we are not Gov- 
erned by Fude and Faction. 

Per Order of the Committee, 

WM. BROWN. 
At a Town Meeting 2r,th January, 1774, the Town unanimously entered 
into the followiiii; determination. 

Life and Properly, are so nearly connected, that the former without the 
latter is but an empty sound. It U for the preservation of those that wc 
rhoose to be in a Political State, under such Rules and Regulations, which 
juMly attend, d to, serve to pre^erve the State in peace and (iood Order. 
For thi* very reason am .-.11 xnen placed in. and vps(r,l with Authority. So 



69 

iiappy is our Constitution, that the Ruler and the Ruled, when acting in 
their Proper Spheres, are under the Glorious Directory, the advawbage 
or THK WHOLE. Nor is it in the power of any in Authority, in what capa- 
city soever, to take from the people their property without their consent. — 
Then after some observations on a statute of Edward the first, and the tea 
act, they thus proceed. — We then Resolve, that we, ourselves, or any for 
or under us, will not buy any teas, subject to a duty, nor knowingly trade 
with any Merchant, or Country Trader that deals in that detestable com- 
modity. And since such means and methods are used to destroy our 
Privileges, which were purchased by the dearest Blood of our ancestors. — 
Those that stand foremost a proper defence of our privileges, shall bave our 
greatest regards. And if any shall be so regardless of our political preser- 
vation, and that of posterity, as to endeavour to counteract our Determina- 
tion, we will treat them in that manner their conduct Deserves. 

List of those, who at the time of their entering some College or University 
were the sous of citizens of Framingham. 

Saml. Haven, S. T. D. Edinburgh and Cambridge, 1749, 

Jason Haven, Pastor at Dedham, do. 1754. 

Nahum Marshall do. 1753. 

Moses Hemenway, Cambridge, D. D. first among the greatest. 

John Haven, all things to all men, Cambridge, 1757. 

Eliab Stone, Pastor in Reading, do 1758. 

Jacob Haven, Pastor at Croyden, Vt. 1785. 

Jonathan Maynard, 1775, Mr. 1781, Cambridge. 

Joseph Bixby,1791, a real Comet. 

Daniel Stone, Cambridge, 1797, Physician, Sharon, M. D. Camb, 

Micah Stone, Wmstown, date unknown. Comet. 
^Win. Ballard, Cambridge, 1799, Comet. 

Jo'bn Brewer, Cambridge, 1804. 

Jones Buckminster, do. 

John Fish, Dartmouth, date unknown. 

Moses Fisk, do. do. 

Wm. Eaton, Somewhere. 

Jno. L. Parkhurst, Brown University, R. I. 

Jeremy Parkhurst, Yale, N. Haven, Physician in Georgia. 

Joseph Bennet, Cambridge, 1818, Pastor, Woburn. 

Jonu. Angier, Cambridge, 1821, Preceptor, Medford. 
** Edward Frost, Cambridge, 1822, Physician, 

Sumner S. Wheeler, Cambridge, 1825, Merchant. 

Joshua T. Eaton, unknown. 

The following is a list of those who were educated at some University 
previous to their settling here. 

David Kellogg, D. D. Dartmouth, N. H. 



70 

F.li Biillar.l, Yale College, Connecticut. 
Josiah A.larns, Cambridge, 1801, Juris Consultus. 
» .Iftines Bowers, 1794, Cambridge, Clerk, 
(•Ii«rl*s Tr.iiu, Cambri.lse, 1U03, B. Faster. 
Sioioa WliitiR}, M. L). Cauibridge, 1818. 

NAMliS OF THE PRECEPTORS OF THE ACADEMY. 

Hawley and I'ark, 2 years, commencing in 1792— Park— Kendall I— Bol- 
lard 2- Stone 1— Emerson 1-Lane 1— Weed 5— Brewer 2— Tower. Tor- 
rey H- Bollard, and Brewer, one year— Train 2— Ballard 1— Cotton 1— 
Morey 2— Fiflier 1— Frescott 1— Otis 1— Noyes 1— Whiting 2— Johnson 1 
—Stuart 1— Cheney 1— Pike 3— Fdlsom 2. 

vi.VAO DOMIM, 1771. 

Under this Monument lies Jos.pli Bnckiuinster, Esq, aged 81 years. One 
worthy in his day. His niotiier ; two wives, and several of his family, to 
the number of 18, by name, Sarah the Virtuous, Consort of the present Jo- 
seph Buckiuintter, Esq. T. R. 

Memento 

mori. 

Hero Lies Buried 

The Body of 

The HON':'- 

EDWARD 

GODAHD ESQ. 

Who Exchanged 

This Life For 

That of The Blessed 

Feh>: y:. 9"' A. D. 

1754. Aged 78 

years 10 M '. &4 Days 

<'Blesed are y*:. Dead 

" Y' . Die in y":. Lord" 

.Mrs. Mary Mellen, senior, 
Aged 70, Died 1709. 
A pious matron of unspotted life, 
A tender mother and obedient wife. 
Like to the Hebrew midwife she obtained, 
A laslinr fame, which ever shall remain. 



ERRATA. 



Page 


{■in 


9 


18 


14 


17 


19 


23 


20 


3 


20 


10 


20 


U 


SI 


8 


22 


23 


26 


14 


27 


13 


32 


19 


33 


24 


37 


20 


38 


11 



For previous read pervious 

" amophous read amorphous 

" tardy read tawdry 

" herd read horse 

" there read these 

" ornamented read ornamental 

" Cred, read Credo, 

" unflooded read flooded 

" overaume read resume 

" Wells read well 

" Meadj read Medeas 

" majiciaos read magiciaQ9 

" prent read present 

" loss read less 



Page Line 

39 2 from the bottom after restest insei • 

the word not 

42 10 For their read (here 

44 34 " revived read seized 

45 8 " Fogae read Togae." 
49 38 " fare read figure 

52 5 " Conum read bonum 

52 26 " rough read thorough 

54 23 « Then threats read Their thrust* 

60 35 « his read this 

61 10 " restored read restore 
61 29 « had read have 

63 5 " ramparts read rampart 

63 9 " omit the word these 

63 14 " inculatioos read inculcations 



O* We mention as an apology for any thing erroneously printed, that the publisher died while 
thfe work wai in press. 



LBMy'l 



i 



